Episodes

There’s high praise, some head-scratching and outright dismay in this innovation-centric episode of Taste Radio. Among the highlights: an upstart labneh brand and a Gen Z-inspired line of better-for-you soda. Less appealing: a corporation’s commodification of ethnic foods and global flavors.

Miguel Leal, the co-founder and CEO of modern Mexican food brand Somos Foods, talks about how the company adjusted its positioning to resonate with a broader audience; mistakes that, in hindsight, were avoidable; how Somos identified areas for improvement in how the products tasted and were named; and how his timeline for an potential acquisition has changed significantly.

Sweet. Savory. Celeb. The hosts check all the boxes in an episode that looks at how consumers evaluate authenticity between brands and celebrity endorsers. We also feature an interview with Stephanie Reda, the director of brand development for fast growing snack and seltzer brand Hal's New York.

Amy Guittard, the CMO and fifth-generation owner of Guittard Chocolate, speaks about the duality of her role as both a steward and agent of change, the challenge of competing with both small brands and large conglomerates and how she helped the company navigate a major threat to its core business.

It’s a “buy or sell” episode as the hosts opine about the future of online grocery shopping, fish sticks, and whether kombucha can recapture some of its magic (and sales). They also discuss Athletic Brewing Co.’s recent $50 million financing round and highlight a few fizzy and spicy new products.

Simon Ford, the co-founder of revered spirit brand Fords Gin, explains why he “never pitches business,” the reasons behind successful and unsuccessful relationships, his belief that naivety is a gift and how he cultivated a strategic partnership with beverage alcohol giant Brown-Forman.

The hosts reflect and ruminate on Lionel Messi’s Prime-killer, “condiment couture,” Boisson-bashing and sausage salvation. They also get vitaminwater vibes from a brand’s recent revamp and highlight a handful of new beverages, including a sparkling tea and a decaf espresso martini.

This special edition of the podcast highlights interviews with six founders, creators and innovators who joined us on Taste Radio during the first half of 2024.

Why are some concepts that were once derided as too esoteric for mainstream consumers now viewed as cutting edge and trendy? The hosts discuss the topic during their recap of the 2024 Summer Fancy Food Show and also highlight rooibos-based drinks, a “breakfast martini” and THC powders.

Nicole Dawes, the founder of Late July Organic Snacks and Nixie Beverage Co., explains why “doing what we say we're going to do” is the key to strong relationships with retail buyers, the challenge of deciding when to accept opportunities even if you’re not ready for them and the importance of working hand-in-hand with outsourced field support.