Episodes

Beanfields CEO Arnold Ventura explores the development of his professional life amid the rapidly evolving food and beverage industries and how lessons gleaned from each role have molded his perspective on business and his leadership style.

AriZona co-founder/chairman Don Vultaggio discussed how his experience as a beer distributor paved the way for the development and stunning rise of AriZona. He also explained how the company has maintained its iconic 99 cent pricing model for 26 years, why he views AriZona as “one big incubator,” and why running a business means handling all kinds of problems, even if it means mopping up blood.

How Barnana Co-Founder/CMO Nik Ingersöll makes ugly bananas look amazing; also featured: an exploration into the brain-boosting business of nootropic beverages and why CBD drink brands might find a friendly bill coming their way.

At the helm of a brand with nearly $180 million in annual retail sales, Essentia founder Ken Uptain explained why timing has been so critical to success. He also spoke about his leadership style, why all potential employees have to pass “Ken’s Good Guy Test,” and the one thing he’ll never share with his team.

Ugly Drinks co-founders Hugh Thomas and Joe Benn discussed growth planning for both the U.S. and U.K. markets, how the perspective of Ugly as a “digital brand” has shaped its overall business strategy, and how its loyal consumers -- aka the “Ugly Mob” -- have enabled the company to rapidly iterate and innovate.

NBA legend and BodyArmor investor Kobe Bryant joins Taste Radio for a discussion exploring his work with the fast-growing sports drink brand and how he’s leveraged his experience as a professional athlete to support its development.

Just three years after launching, wellness shot brand Vive Organic landed a $7 million funding round. In this episode, founder/CEO Wyatt Taubman opened up the company playbook and gave brands looking to raise money a must-hear play-by-play of how the deal got done.