Episodes

When Oscar-nominated actor William H. Macy joined Woody Creek Distillers, it wasn’t a Hollywood deal – it was a neighborhood one. In this episode, he and award-winning bartender Sean Kenyon discuss how Woody Creek evolved from a small-town operation into a nationally respected brand, all while staying true to its roots: crafting world-class spirits at accessible prices.

From college campuses to cannabis aisles, this episode explores how emerging CPG brands are carving out space in crowded categories. The hosts unpack Better Sour’s rapid retail expansion – including an exclusive Sprouts flavor – while also spotlighting Toom’s strategic refresh that helped turn a niche garlic dip into a national brand. Plus, the challenges of adaptogen overload.

How did Clio Snacks evolve from a homemade Greek yogurt bar created in a New Jersey garage into a national brand approaching $90 million in annual sales? In this episode, company CEO John McGuckin shares the strategic blueprint behind the brand’s explosive growth, from prototype to distribution in nearly every major grocery and mass retail chain across the U.S.

The hosts dissect Spindrift’s decision to discontinue its Spiked line and spotlight rising CPG stars Mooski and Painterland Sisters, each of which recently announced major funding rounds. They also preview upcoming Taste Radio meetups in the U.S. and U.K., before taking bites and sips of oat bars, cookies and a Patrick Mahomes-backed coffee brand.

Aishwarya Iyer, the founder of premium olive oil and pantry staples company Brightland, built one of the fastest-growing premium CPG brands by doing what many startups overlook: putting product integrity, brand trust, and strategic timing ahead of rapid retail expansion.

While alcohol consumption is cooling, the battle between clean-label ingredients and high-protein performance foods is heating up. The hosts examine what’s driving these massive shifts in consumer behavior, and how brands like David, Crisp Power and Athletic Brewing are responding.

Ben Jacobsen, founder of Jacobsen Salt Co., shares how an entrepreneurial journey that began with a few flakes of sea salt led him to creating one of the country’s most iconic artisanal food brands. He explains how he bootstrapped the business from scratch and speaks candidly about the deep creative drive that continues to fuel his work.