Episodes

Actor Wyatt Russell – best known for his role as U.S. Agent in the Marvel film “Thunderbolts” – and producer Richard Peete pull back the curtain on their journey launching Lake Hour, a fast-growing canned cocktail brand that’s making waves far beyond the red carpet.

Gen Z is reshaping the frozen food game… and they’re not settling for TV dinners. But while they’re hungry for health and convenience, there's a catch: the price tag. Can wellness-focused frozen meals stay accessible, or are they becoming a luxury in disguise? The hosts discuss, and also sample Korean-style hard seltzers, culturally-inspired craft sodas and a potentially game-changing brand of non-alcoholic spirits.

The latest episode of Taste Radio’s Elevator Talk spotlights innovative leaders from Sohha Savory, Coro Foods, La Pêche, SaladSprinkles, and Cedar F&B. This week’s special co-host is Beth Brown, founder and principal advisor at growth-stage consultancy S3 Connect.

Mike Rypka, the founder of revered fast-casual chain Torchy’s Tacos, opens up about the humble beginnings of the company and how deliberate growth has helped preserve its identity and quality. He also talks about why “clean, craveable food” is the key to customer retention and how his personal struggles shaped a company culture rooted in redemption and opportunity.

What’s the point of PepsiCo’s new sub-line of prebiotic colas? Is it addressing genuine consumer demand for functional ingredients, or just riding the wellness wave? The hosts once again weigh in. They also highlight emerging shot brands gaining traction and take a closer look at how the viral “WaterTok” phenomenon may have influenced Keurig Dr Pepper’s acquisition of Dyla Brands.

Neal Cohen and Yoni Reisman, co-founders of trailblazing ready-to-drink cocktail brand Tip Top Cocktails, share how an idea sparked on the music festival circuit evolved into a highly awarded brand with national reach. Their journey is a case study in bootstrapping, brand discipline, and building loyalty through an unwavering commitment to quality and customer experience.

How did GNGR Labs’ organic, cold-pressed wellness shots become a staple in New York City bodegas and land nationwide distribution at Wegmans? Founder Namik Soltan shares a story powered by purpose, product and unrelenting persistence. The hosts also unpack PepsiCo’s unexpected – and gutsy – announcement and explore how excellence fueled Tia Lupita’s acquisition. [...]

Yerba Madre is a brand nearly synonymous with its namesake ingredient. But in a country where most consumers have never heard of yerba mate, a caffeine-laden herbal infusion, how do you build a household name around it? Ben Mand, the CEO of Yerba Madre, talks about how the company is expanding its national footprint while staying true to its regenerative roots and mission-driven values.

What happens when a high-profile protein bar brand suddenly dives into frozen seafood? Naturally, the industry takes notice… and chaos ensues. The hosts unpack David’s unexpected launch of raw cod, a move that seems both strategic and defiant, and which sparked intense debate across CPG. They also delve into the debut of a celebrity’s “love potion” and a luxurious presentation of pecans.