Elevator Talk: Corpse Reviver, MAA • TE, The NA Beverage Company, Big D Energy Drink

How do you cultivate a loyal following through organic growth and word-of-mouth buzz and without leaning on celebrity endorsements or splashy marketing campaigns? It’s the Komos way. In this episode, Ria Soler, the director of education and global advocacy for luxury spirit brand Tequila Komos, talks about how the company has focused on organic growth, thoughtful distribution and authenticity to stand out in an increasingly crowded market. Show notes: 0:45: Sports Drink? Tawchy’s. More Investment, But Where? Jean Luc Picard. National Day Day. –  Tequila is still booming, but is “better for you”? Torchy’s Tacos is all over Austin. When will the chain come to Boston? Melissa drops the latest on Nombase, and we’ve got new speaker reveals for BevNET Live. FABID’s Q1 2025 report shows the funding freeze might be thawing, just not everywhere. National Pretzel Day – are you Team Soft or Team Crunchy? John is irritated. And, we’ve got new and notable products aplenty. 34:47: Interview: Ria Soler, Director of Education and Global Advocacy at Tequila Komos – At the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival last month in The Bahamas, Ria talks about how Komos brings a winemaker’s finesse to the world of agave spirits, blending traditional tequila craftsmanship with a sophisticated, global outlook. She also offers a candid look into Komos’s multifaceted approach to brand building, how it embraces product placement in popular television shows from The White Lotus to The Real Housewives, and why “all press is good press” as the company expands visibility. Ria also talks about why at the heart of Komos’ growth is a strong focus on distributor relationships, where trust and mutual respect are essential – especially during its transition into Gallo’s network. She shares the value of ride-alongs with sales reps, even if it means braving a few dirty cars, and explains why her communication style is rooted in listening and adaptability. Brands in this episode: Pretzelized, Unique Pretzels, Uncle Jerry’s, Auntie’s Annie,  Quinn’s, El Nacho, Cafe Du Monde, Dude Wow, Zenjoy, MTN Dew, Whiteleaf Provisions, Super Coffee, La Colombe, Tequila Komos, Orin Swift, Fortaleza, Chartreuse, Don Julio, Avion, Aviation Gin

The latest installment of Elevator Talk features leaders from Corpse Reviver, MAA • TE, The NA Beverage Company and Big D Energy Drink. Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week’s special co-host is Courtney O’Brien, the founder of The Outlier Initiative, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. She is joined by Ray Latif, the editor and producer of the Taste Radio podcast. Founders and CEOs of early stage food or beverage brands are invited to join future shows to pitch their products, discuss recent news and get feedback from industry experts. It is free to participate and interviews will be conducted remotely. Apply for a future episode of Elevator Talk.

Troy Bonde and Winston Alfieri aren’t selling your father’s ragu. Instead, the 25-year-old co-founders of Sauz,  a bold, culture-forward pasta sauce brand, are reimagining what it means to build a modern CPG company from the ground up. And, it’s working. Launched in 2023, Sauz has quickly made a name for itself with an unconventional lineup of jarred sauces, including Hot Honey Marinara, Creamy Calabrian Vodka, Miso Garlic Marinara, and Brown Butter Alfredo. The inventive flavors, combined with a strong brand voice and sharp social presence, have propelled Sauz onto the shelves of over 6,000 stores nationwide, including Whole Foods, Sprouts, Target, Wegmans, Kroger and more. In this episode, Troy and Winston dive into their journey from outsiders to industry disruptors and how a scrappy, solutions-first mindset powers everything they do. They also talk about the intentionality behind their brand’s unique digital presence and why their path to being everywhere starts with obsessing over the details. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Troy Bonde & Winston Alfieri, Co-Founders, Sauz - On location at Expo West 2025, lifelong friends and co-founders Troy and Winston share the story of how they used the proceeds from their first stint in entrepreneurship to launch Sauz. They dive into why legacy tomato sauces never resonated with them, recounting late-night kitchen experiments, early sourcing hurdles, and the crucial role a food scientist played in translating wild flavor ideas into scalable products. Troy and Winston also reveal how they convinced skeptical retail buyers that Sauz could deliver true incremental value – and the grind behind cooking sauce for 62 straight days to meet a national Target launch and how saying “I don’t know” has opened doors in unexpected ways. From managing brutal supply chain stress tests to deliberately turning down more retailers than they accept, they break down how discipline and focus are fueling smarter growth. They also unpack how a “lazy” social post sparked a viral breakout, how TikTok-native content is resonating with 50+ audiences on Instagram, and their strategy for thoughtful channel expansion into club and mass. Finally, they share the tough lessons learned from retailer rejections—and how their relentless focus on innovation and digital-first brand building is catching the eye of top-tier VCs. Brands in this episode: Sauz, Rao’s Carbone, Truff, Immi

In a year clouded by economic uncertainty, you’d think investors would be clinging to their cash. But by the looks of things, maybe not? This episode also features an interview with acclaimed Boston-based chefs Jamie Bissonnette and Kenta Katagai as they take us behind the scenes of an unforgettable culinary collaboration. Show notes: 0:45: NYC In Full Effect. $30 Million For Ryl & Pop. Good Eat’n. Hark, I See Sweets! Cologne? I Wasn’t Listening. –  The hosts recap the buzz from Taste Radio’s high-energy meetup in NYC, where over 100 CPG founders, investors, and industry insiders came together for an evening of networking, innovation, and inspiration. Held at ReThink Food’s Community Kitchen, the event spotlighted compelling conversations with brand leaders and featured a showcase of cutting-edge products that had everyone talking — and sampling. They also break down two eye-catching $15 million funding rounds: one for Culture Pop and another for Ryl Tea, reflecting the surging demand for functional, better-for-you beverages. Later in the episode, the hosts dive into a lineup of crave-worthy salty snacks from a brand backed by NBA star Chris Paul and share their take on a bold new line of tonic waters with standout packaging that turns heads. 30:03: Interview: Jamie Bissonnette & Kenta Katagai, Zurito & Sushi @ Temple Records – A celebrated culinary force in Boston and beyond, Jamie is the co-founder of BCB3 Hospitality Group, the team behind four standout restaurants in the city, including Zurito, a Basque-inspired eatery, and Temple Records, a stylish cocktail bar channeling the vibe of 1950s Japanese listening lounges. Nestled beneath Temple Records is Sushi @, an intimate, subterranean sushi bar led by Kenta’s meticulous direction. In this interview, Jamie reflects on his journey from a young chef cutting his teeth in the restaurant business to crafting a dynamic, globally inspired dining experience. Kenta shares how his deep respect for heritage and simplicity drives every slice and plate. Together, they dive into the art of educating diners, the power of narrative, and the joy of staying true to their vision – all while delivering unforgettable meals that resonate far beyond the plate. Brands in this episode: GNGR Labs, Oh So Easy, ZenJoy, Avsome, Poppi, Olipop, Culture Pop, Ryl Tea, Just Ice Tea, Saint James, Halfday, Moss, Harken Sweets, Gigantic Candy, Good Eat’n, Jozo, Match Tonic Water, MOSS, Salad Sprinkles, TipTop, Archer Roose, Bake Me Healthy, Zesty Z, Rind Snacks

Ignite20 isn’t just cutting checks. The new $7 million venture capital fund and hybrid accelerator is lighting a fire under the next wave of CPG innovators. Launched in February 2025, Ignite20 was born out of the Redwood Ventures Group and is also backed by early-stage VC firm Santatera Capital and food distributor RPM Food. Over the next three years, the fund will invest in 60 early-stage startups across the health, beauty, food, beverage, and pet care industries – targeting 20 promising brands per year. Each selected company will receive a $50,000 capital investment, along with hands-on support from a  network of operators, investors, and retail buyers. Through tactical mentorship, operational strategy, and founder-focused development, the program is designed to help brands grow sustainably and strategically. In this episode, we sit down with Gabriela Morales, Ignite20’s co-founder and managing director, who shares how the fund is rethinking early-stage investing, the reason why margins matter more than price point, how categories like functional snacks and high-protein foods are redefining innovation, and the value of a 30-second video pitch. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Gabriela Morales, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Ignite20 – On location at Expo West 2025, Gabriela shares her first impressions of the industry’s biggest stage and her journey from nutritionist and wellness entrepreneur to trailblazing venture investor. She also opens up about what fuels her investment philosophy, including her admiration for founders with true “fire in the belly.” Gabriela also dives into the traits she looks for in early stage brands, categories she views as poised for breakout growth, and her take on buzzy trends like better-for-you soda, adaptogens, and non-nutritive sweeteners. Plus, Gabriela unpacks why sustainable growth and velocity – not just profitability – are the metrics that really matter in today’s CPG market. Brands in this episode: Hiyo, Little Sesame, Wildwonder, Mezcla

Is 2025 the year of the acquisition? The hosts highlight two more headline-grabbing deals announced over the past week: Hershey’s $750M purchase of BFY snack maker LesserEvil and the sale of watermelon water brand Mela to King Juice. We also speak with Jesse Bongiovi, who alongside rockstar father Jon Bon Jovi, co-founded Hampton Water Wine, a rosé brand that’s taken the industry by storm. Show notes: 0:45: In Memoriam. NY → Texas. New With Nom. Congrats CC. Ray, The Fresh Cartoon. Sober Informed. Bert & Ernie. – Mike opens the episode with a tribute to the late Jack Craven. The hosts hype Taste Radio’s upcoming meetups in NYC and Austin and Melissa spotlights valuable content featured in recent episodes of the Nombase Podcast. They also discuss the acquisitions of LesserEvil and Mela, and how both brands resonate with modern consumers. Everyone shares their lesser known nicknames and riffs on the term “sober informed,” before Ray is compared to a Sesame Street character. Ray reveals a brand’s innovative way to smuggle soda into movie theaters (it’s not what you think). Melissa and Jacqui highlight coconut water, protein- and honey-based bars as well as “salad sprinkles.” 33:15: Interview: Jesse Bongiovi, Co-Founder, Hampton Water Wine – Jesse joined us for a conversation amidst the tropical buzz of the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival, which was held last month in The Bahamas. Jesse, who co-founded the award-winning rosé wine brand with his father and rock icon Jon Bon Jovi, talks about how a focus on accessibility without pretension is at the core of Hampton Water’s success and how he’s built a premium French rosé brand by staying scrappy, authentic and grounded. Brands in this episode: Fishwife, Petit Pot, Pistakio, Ithaca Hummus, Happy Wolf, Mela, LesserEvil, ISH, Evolution Fresh, Coaqua, Superfoodio, Bon Bee, Payday, MOSH, Salad Sprinkles, Painterland Sisters, Chutni Punch, Hampton Water Wine

The latest episode of Elevator Talk features leaders from E3 Energy Cubes, The Flavorsmith, Terranean, Sphere Snacks and Masala Gossip. Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week’s special co-host is Elisa Croft, the co-founder of First Friday CPG, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. She is joined by Ray Latif, the editor and producer of the Taste Radio podcast. Founders and CEOs of early stage food or beverage brands are invited to join future shows to pitch their products, discuss recent news and get feedback from industry experts. It is free to participate and interviews are conducted remotely. Apply to participate in a future episode of Elevator Talk.

Even after 15 years and a majority sale – reportedly valued at over $650 million – of the company he founded, Bill Creelman remains convinced that Spindrift is just at the beginning of a “real” revolution. Since launching Spindrift in 2010, Bill has built the brand into a powerhouse, generating nearly $300 million in annual retail sales, according to Nielsen IQ. Spindrift is known for its sparkling water made with real fruit juice and purees, with no added sugars or added flavors. The brand has expanded its portfolio to include hard seltzers and, more recently, a mid-calorie soda line that harkens back to Spindrift’s original mission of delivering authentic, high-quality beverages. Earlier this year, private equity firm Gryphon Investors acquired a majority stake in Spindrift. As part of this transition, veteran CPG executive Dave Burwick stepped in as CEO, while Bill now serves as chairman of the board. Together, Bill and Dave are leading Spindrift into its next chapter, one focused on real ingredients and sustainable growth. For Bill, the future is full of endless possibilities. As he shared in our conversation, “The most surprising part is realizing just how much further we can go.” In this episode, Bill and Dave dive into the importance of staying true to a vision, executing it with patience, and creating a brand that resonates with today’s conscious consumers. They explore how ambition, when guided by intentionality, leads to real, sustainable growth. Bill and Dave also discuss why Spindrift’s innovation strategy is grounded in the belief that the world is ready for beverages that prioritize quality, transparency, and authenticity. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Bill Creelman, Founder & Dave Burwick, CEO, Spindrift – Bill and Dave reflect on Spindrift’s journey since its inception in 2010, starting with refrigerated sodas in iconic longneck glass bottles, and how the brand is now revisiting its origins with a new line of canned sodas. They discuss Spindrift’s premium positioning and its ability to maintain a higher price point in an increasingly crowded market, emphasizing why consumers are willing to pay more for a product that delivers authenticity and exceptional quality. The founders attribute the brand’s ability to uphold its integrity and solidify its market position to its unwavering commitment to real ingredients and flavor innovation. They also explore the concept of "refreshment" in the beverage space, discussing untapped potential within Spindrift’s core business and the vital role of strategic partnerships, like Gryphon, in fueling the brand’s sustained growth. Reflecting on the company’s progress, Bill acknowledges the challenges they've faced, emphasizing the importance of staying true to their vision during difficult times and remaining focused on long-term success. Brands in this episode: Spindrift, Olipop, Poppi, Truly

When Walmart calls, you answer. When the retail giant offers you shelf space in 2,700 of its stores, you say “yes.” But turning that opportunity into success? That’s where the real challenge begins. Alan Scholnick, the founder of Datefix, a date-based nutrition snack brand, talks about how its two-year development from nascent idea to Walmart shelves has shaped the company’s path forward. Show notes: 0:45: Tax Day/TR Meetup. $100 In Your Pocket. Fonzie’s Shark. Not Your Father’s Ice Cream. Easy-ish Rice & Beans. – We’re 11 days away from Taste Radio’s NYC Meetup – you should join us. Oh, and BevNET Live Summer 2025 is right around the corner; there’s money to be saved. Ray samples an unusual minty drink and hates on April Fool’s Day CPG pranks. John shares his two cents on Groupon, before Mike shares the origins of a sharky saying. Jacqui highlights “breast milk ice cream” (yes, that’s how it’s described) and a line of easy to prepare rice mixes inspired by Latin cuisine. Mike talks about a U.K.-based tea brand and a hotpot “queen” before Ray makes a stunning admission. 28:51: Interview: Alan Scholnick, Founder & CEO, Datefix – On location at Expo West 2025, Alan shares the story behind Datefix, which draws from his Lebanese mother-in-law’s culinary traditions and seamlessly blends his passion for fitness and nourishing, flavorful food. He highlights the brand’s recent rebrand, which focuses on elevating the product’s simple yet premium ingredients, while positioning Datefix for exciting co-branding collaborations in the future. Alan elaborates on the versatility of Datefix, noting its ability to fit into multiple daypart occasions, and discusses how the product’s portability and long shelf life make it a challenge to define a single primary positioning. He also expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, reflecting on the brand’s journey since Expo West 2023. Brands in this episode: Datefix, GNGR Labs, Olipop, Mentos, Frida Ice Cream, Fancypants, Loisa, A Dozen Cousins, Little Sesame, Vista Hermosa, Cornish Tea, Hotpot Queen, MiLa

When Kevin McCray sold his namesake brand, Kevin’s Natural Foods, to Mars, Inc. for a staggering $800 million, it wasn’t just a milestone – it was the culmination of a business philosophy built on three simple words: humble and hungry. Now, with the launch of Wild Fox Foods, those same principles form the core of his new, better-for-you snack consumer brand. Kevin’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2012 with Chef’s Menu, a meal kit company that laid the foundation for what would later become Kevin’s Natural Foods – a pioneering brand offering clean, convenient, and nutritious refrigerated and frozen meals. Fast-forward to today, and Kevin’s Natural Foods is a household name, stocked in over 20,000 retail locations across Target, Whole Foods, CVS, Publix, Walmart, and more. In 2023, Mars acquired the brand, keeping it as a standalone business within its Food & Nutrition unit. But Kevin wasn’t done. Last month, he made a bold return to CPG with Wild Fox Foods, a brand that reimagines trail mixes, roasted nuts, and clean protein bars, offering consumers better-for-you alternatives without sacrificing flavor.   In this episode, Kevin shares his playbook for building Wild Fox Foods using the tenets responsible for the success of Kevin’s Natural Foods. He breaks down what it takes to solve real consumer problems, the power of efficient, low-cost consumer research, and why founders should focus on building a strong brand before seeking funding. He also reveals how preparation, persistence, and openness to feedback are critical for any CPG entrepreneur looking to disrupt the market. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Kevin McCray, Co-Founder, Kevin's Natural Foods & Wild Fox – On location at Expo West 2025, Kevin discusses the creative process behind Wild Fox's brand name, including a humorous alternative, and the challenges of the snacking industry. He explains what inspired him to re-enter the food industry, particularly after a remarkable exit with Kevin’s Natural Foods and why alternatives to legacy brands must be built on quality ingredients and taste. He emphasizes the importance of retailer relationships, product offerings, and partnerships in getting a brand on the shelf, along with balancing short-term consumer feedback and long-term goals for success. Kevin also shares insights on the financial side of launching a food brand, advocating for efficient research and reflects on the role of luck and hard work in his success. Brands in this episode: Kevin’s Natural Foods, Wild Fox Foods