Episodes

Candy-coated dates, cocktails in pouches, collagen-infused beauty drinks and “noise-canceling” tonics. The latest wave of launches begs the question: is niche now the norm in food and beverage?

Archer founder & CEO Eugene Kang shares how disciplined execution, vertical integration and precisely timed innovation transformed the upstart jerky brand into one of the fastest-growing CPG companies in the U.S. He talks about how Archer positioned itself ahead of explosive trends and built durable partnerships with retailers, and why patience and long-term thinking are critical traits for founders.

The hosts recap a whirlwind week of back-to-back events in L.A., celebrating standout competitions, emerging brands, and generous mentorship from seasoned founders at Nosh Live and BevNET Live. From Projo’s big win in the New Beverage Showdown to celebrity cameos by Ryan Phillippe and Khloé Kardashian, the energy never let up.

Built on sharp strategy, standout design, and disciplined execution, “social tonic” brand Hiyo recently inked a new partnership with Live Nation placing the brand in major venues across the U.S. In this episode, co-founders Evan Quinn, Cygne Cooper and George Youmans, discuss how Hiyo is redefining moderation, unlocking category whitespace, and proving that thoughtful focus can outpace flashy niche plays.

Nosh Live is buzzing — but did Mike snag that selfie with Khloé? On location in Marina Del Rey, the hosts sip on Erewhon’s spicy bone-broth hot chocolate, unpack two landmark lawsuits and dream of their next visit to 7-Eleven (yes, really). They also serve up hot takes on everything from tempeh chips and plant-based cookie dough to “cultured” drinks and cheese crisps.

Bringing a hit international food brand to the U.S. sounds glamorous, but behind every success story is a maze of challenges most consumers never see. In this special crossover episode of Taste Radio and Nombase, Lucía Conejo-Mir of Ines Rosales and Jennifer Donnellan of Lakrids by Bülow reveal the real work behind breaking into the American market.

Prebiotic cola, plant-based (and AI-inspired?) pulled chicken and protein-packed marshmallows. The hosts crack open Pepsi’s new prebiotic cola and discuss whether a stevia-sweetened “functional” soda can win over classic cola fans. They also dig into Just Meat’s big win at Walmart and what it says about the future of meat analogs, and why protein marshmallows might actually work in your next s’more.

Brand collaborations are becoming one of the most effective growth levers in CPG. In this episode, the team breaks down why co-branded products are becoming a core strategy for food and beverage brands, what separates meaningful partnerships from gimmicks, and how leaders like Grillo’s, Fly By Jing, Graza, and Liquid Death are using them to drive awareness, trial, and category expansion.

The latest episode of Taste Radio’s Elevator Talk spotlights innovative leaders from No Cap!, Lua Coffee, Tizz and The Purple Drop. This week’s special co-host is Wade Yenny, the vice president of brand management & business development for Vdriven.