Taste Radio podcast

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Mind The Business: Small Business Success Stories

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Strategic Growth: Knowing When to Scale Your Business 30:28

منذ 15 يومًا30:28

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احب

30:28

Building a thriving business isn't always about rapid expansion. When should you hit the accelerator on growth, and when should you pump the brakes? Jannese and Austin are in Nashville, Tennessee to talk with Taku Zhou and Sibusiso Ajayi of TKZ Architecture LLC to explore this crucial entrepreneurial crossroads. The duo shares candid insights from their journey building TKZ Architecture, revealing the moments they knew it was time to scale – and importantly, when it wasn't. They discuss how they balanced the allure of growth against the need to strengthen their foundation through refined workflows, established protocols, and market positioning. Tune in as we unpack the strategic decision-making that goes into sustainable business expansion and learn the telltale signs that you're ready for growth and how to execute that transition successfully. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

Taste Radio

منزل السلاسل•Feed

The top podcast for anyone building a business in food or beverage, BevNET’s Taste Radio features interviews with the leaders and rising stars of our fast-evolving industry. The shows also include discussion on emerging trends, innovation and news of the week from our regular cadre of hosts from the BevNET and NOSH teams. Tell us what you think at ask@tasteradio.com. You can also email us if you are interested in Taste Radio sponsorship opportunities. And if you like the podcast, share it with a colleague, will ya?

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Taste Radio

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Taste Radio

1
60 Startups. $7 Million. How Ignite20 Is Funding The Future Of CPG. 26:50

منذ يومين26:50

26:50

Ignite20 isn’t just cutting checks. The new $7 million venture capital fund and hybrid accelerator is lighting a fire under the next wave of CPG innovators. Launched in February 2025, Ignite20 was born out of the Redwood Ventures Group and is also backed by early-stage VC firm Santatera Capital and food distributor RPM Food. Over the next three years, the fund will invest in 60 early-stage startups across the health, beauty, food, beverage, and pet care industries – targeting 20 promising brands per year. Each selected company will receive a $50,000 capital investment, along with hands-on support from a network of operators, investors, and retail buyers. Through tactical mentorship, operational strategy, and founder-focused development, the program is designed to help brands grow sustainably and strategically. In this episode, we sit down with Gabriela Morales, Ignite20’s co-founder and managing director, who shares how the fund is rethinking early-stage investing, the reason why margins matter more than price point, how categories like functional snacks and high-protein foods are redefining innovation, and the value of a 30-second video pitch. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Gabriela Morales, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Ignite20 – On location at Expo West 2025, Gabriela shares her first impressions of the industry’s biggest stage and her journey from nutritionist and wellness entrepreneur to trailblazing venture investor. She also opens up about what fuels her investment philosophy, including her admiration for founders with true “fire in the belly.” Gabriela also dives into the traits she looks for in early stage brands, categories she views as poised for breakout growth, and her take on buzzy trends like better-for-you soda, adaptogens, and non-nutritive sweeteners. Plus, Gabriela unpacks why sustainable growth and velocity – not just profitability – are the metrics that really matter in today’s CPG market. Brands in this episode: Hiyo, Little Sesame, Wildwonder, Mezcla…

Taste Radio

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The M&A Train Keeps Rolling. And, How 'Jovi's Hampton Water Got Hot. 50:28

منذ 6 أيام50:28

50:28

Is 2025 the year of the acquisition? The hosts highlight two more headline-grabbing deals announced over the past week: Hershey’s $750M purchase of BFY snack maker LesserEvil and the sale of watermelon water brand Mela to King Juice. We also speak with Jesse Bongiovi, who alongside rockstar father Jon Bon Jovi, co-founded Hampton Water Wine, a rosé brand that’s taken the industry by storm. Show notes: 0:45: In Memoriam. NY → Texas. New With Nom. Congrats CC. Ray, The Fresh Cartoon. Sober Informed. Bert & Ernie. – Mike opens the episode with a tribute to the late Jack Craven. The hosts hype Taste Radio’s upcoming meetups in NYC and Austin and Melissa spotlights valuable content featured in recent episodes of the Nombase Podcast . They also discuss the acquisitions of LesserEvil and Mela, and how both brands resonate with modern consumers. Everyone shares their lesser known nicknames and riffs on the term “sober informed,” before Ray is compared to a Sesame Street character. Ray reveals a brand’s innovative way to smuggle soda into movie theaters (it’s not what you think). Melissa and Jacqui highlight coconut water, protein- and honey-based bars as well as “salad sprinkles.” 33:15: Interview: Jesse Bongiovi, Co-Founder, Hampton Water Wine – Jesse joined us for a conversation amidst the tropical buzz of the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival, which was held last month in The Bahamas. Jesse, who co-founded the award-winning rosé wine brand with his father and rock icon Jon Bon Jovi, talks about how a focus on accessibility without pretension is at the core of Hampton Water’s success and how he’s built a premium French rosé brand by staying scrappy, authentic and grounded. Brands in this episode: Fishwife, Petit Pot, Pistakio, Ithaca Hummus, Happy Wolf, Mela, LesserEvil, ISH, Evolution Fresh, Coaqua, Superfoodio, Bon Bee, Payday, MOSH, Salad Sprinkles, Painterland Sisters, Chutni Punch, Hampton Water Wine…

Taste Radio

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Elevator Talk: E3 Energy Cubes, The Flavorsmith, Terranean, Sphere Snacks, Masala Gossip 1:04:54

منذ 7 أيام1:04:54

1:04:54

The latest episode of Elevator Talk features leaders from E3 Energy Cubes, The Flavorsmith, Terranean, Sphere Snacks and Masala Gossip. Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week’s special co-host is Elisa Croft, the co-founder of First Friday CPG, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. She is joined by Ray Latif, the editor and producer of the Taste Radio podcast. Founders and CEOs of early stage food or beverage brands are invited to join future shows to pitch their products, discuss recent news and get feedback from industry experts. It is free to participate and interviews are conducted remotely. Apply to participate in a future episode of Elevator Talk.…

Taste Radio

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The ‘Real’ Story Behind Spindrift’s Stunning Success 47:34

منذ 9 أيام47:34

47:34

Even after 15 years and a majority sale – reportedly valued at over $650 million – of the company he founded, Bill Creelman remains convinced that Spindrift is just at the beginning of a “real” revolution. Since launching Spindrift in 2010, Bill has built the brand into a powerhouse, generating nearly $300 million in annual retail sales, according to Nielsen IQ. Spindrift is known for its sparkling water made with real fruit juice and purees, with no added sugars or added flavors. The brand has expanded its portfolio to include hard seltzers and, more recently, a mid-calorie soda line that harkens back to Spindrift’s original mission of delivering authentic, high-quality beverages. Earlier this year, private equity firm Gryphon Investors acquired a majority stake in Spindrift. As part of this transition, veteran CPG executive Dave Burwick stepped in as CEO, while Bill now serves as chairman of the board. Together, Bill and Dave are leading Spindrift into its next chapter, one focused on real ingredients and sustainable growth. For Bill, the future is full of endless possibilities. As he shared in our conversation, “The most surprising part is realizing just how much further we can go.” In this episode, Bill and Dave dive into the importance of staying true to a vision, executing it with patience, and creating a brand that resonates with today’s conscious consumers. They explore how ambition, when guided by intentionality, leads to real, sustainable growth. Bill and Dave also discuss why Spindrift’s innovation strategy is grounded in the belief that the world is ready for beverages that prioritize quality, transparency, and authenticity. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Bill Creelman, Founder & Dave Burwick, CEO, Spindrift – Bill and Dave reflect on Spindrift’s journey since its inception in 2010, starting with refrigerated sodas in iconic longneck glass bottles, and how the brand is now revisiting its origins with a new line of canned sodas. They discuss Spindrift’s premium positioning and its ability to maintain a higher price point in an increasingly crowded market, emphasizing why consumers are willing to pay more for a product that delivers authenticity and exceptional quality. The founders attribute the brand’s ability to uphold its integrity and solidify its market position to its unwavering commitment to real ingredients and flavor innovation. They also explore the concept of "refreshment" in the beverage space, discussing untapped potential within Spindrift’s core business and the vital role of strategic partnerships, like Gryphon, in fueling the brand’s sustained growth. Reflecting on the company’s progress, Bill acknowledges the challenges they've faced, emphasizing the importance of staying true to their vision during difficult times and remaining focused on long-term success. Brands in this episode: Spindrift, Olipop, Poppi, Truly…

Taste Radio

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How Datefix Landed A Dream Deal With Walmart... And What Comes Next 49:22

منذ 14 يومًا49:22

49:22

When Walmart calls, you answer. When the retail giant offers you shelf space in 2,700 of its stores, you say “yes.” But turning that opportunity into success? That’s where the real challenge begins. Alan Scholnick, the founder of Datefix, a date-based nutrition snack brand, talks about how its two-year development from nascent idea to Walmart shelves has shaped the company’s path forward. Show notes: 0:45: Tax Day/TR Meetup. $100 In Your Pocket. Fonzie’s Shark. Not Your Father’s Ice Cream. Easy-ish Rice & Beans. – We’re 11 days away from Taste Radio’s NYC Meetup – you should join us . Oh, and BevNET Live Summer 2025 is right around the corner; there’s money to be saved . Ray samples an unusual minty drink and hates on April Fool’s Day CPG pranks. John shares his two cents on Groupon, before Mike shares the origins of a sharky saying. Jacqui highlights “breast milk ice cream” (yes, that’s how it’s described) and a line of easy to prepare rice mixes inspired by Latin cuisine. Mike talks about a U.K.-based tea brand and a hotpot “queen” before Ray makes a stunning admission. 28:51: Interview: Alan Scholnick, Founder & CEO, Datefix – On location at Expo West 2025, Alan shares the story behind Datefix, which draws from his Lebanese mother-in-law’s culinary traditions and seamlessly blends his passion for fitness and nourishing, flavorful food. He highlights the brand’s recent rebrand, which focuses on elevating the product’s simple yet premium ingredients, while positioning Datefix for exciting co-branding collaborations in the future. Alan elaborates on the versatility of Datefix, noting its ability to fit into multiple daypart occasions, and discusses how the product’s portability and long shelf life make it a challenge to define a single primary positioning. He also expresses gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community, reflecting on the brand’s journey since Expo West 2023. Brands in this episode: Datefix, GNGR Labs, Olipop, Mentos, Frida Ice Cream, Fancypants, Loisa, A Dozen Cousins, Little Sesame, Vista Hermosa, Cornish Tea, Hotpot Queen, MiLa…

Taste Radio

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Startup To $800M Sale. How A Three-Word Mantra Guided Kevin McCray. 28:21

منذ 16 يومًا28:21

28:21

When Kevin McCray sold his namesake brand, Kevin’s Natural Foods, to Mars, Inc. for a staggering $800 million, it wasn’t just a milestone – it was the culmination of a business philosophy built on three simple words: humble and hungry. Now, with the launch of Wild Fox Foods, those same principles form the core of his new, better-for-you snack consumer brand. Kevin’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2012 with Chef’s Menu, a meal kit company that laid the foundation for what would later become Kevin’s Natural Foods – a pioneering brand offering clean, convenient, and nutritious refrigerated and frozen meals. Fast-forward to today, and Kevin’s Natural Foods is a household name, stocked in over 20,000 retail locations across Target, Whole Foods, CVS, Publix, Walmart, and more. In 2023, Mars acquired the brand, keeping it as a standalone business within its Food & Nutrition unit. But Kevin wasn’t done. Last month, he made a bold return to CPG with Wild Fox Foods, a brand that reimagines trail mixes, roasted nuts, and clean protein bars, offering consumers better-for-you alternatives without sacrificing flavor. In this episode, Kevin shares his playbook for building Wild Fox Foods using the tenets responsible for the success of Kevin’s Natural Foods. He breaks down what it takes to solve real consumer problems, the power of efficient, low-cost consumer research, and why founders should focus on building a strong brand before seeking funding. He also reveals how preparation, persistence, and openness to feedback are critical for any CPG entrepreneur looking to disrupt the market. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Kevin McCray, Co-Founder, Kevin's Natural Foods & Wild Fox – On location at Expo West 2025, Kevin discusses the creative process behind Wild Fox's brand name, including a humorous alternative, and the challenges of the snacking industry. He explains what inspired him to re-enter the food industry, particularly after a remarkable exit with Kevin’s Natural Foods and why alternatives to legacy brands must be built on quality ingredients and taste. He emphasizes the importance of retailer relationships, product offerings, and partnerships in getting a brand on the shelf, along with balancing short-term consumer feedback and long-term goals for success. Kevin also shares insights on the financial side of launching a food brand, advocating for efficient research and reflects on the role of luck and hard work in his success. Brands in this episode: Kevin’s Natural Foods, Wild Fox Foods…

Taste Radio

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A Surprising Salvo On Artificial Colors. Plus, Ben Stiller... Pop? 38:44

منذ 21 يومًا38:44

38:44

Is West Virginia’s groundbreaking move to ban artificial dyes in food the pebble that causes an avalanche? And, is Ben Stiller really leaping into an already crowded pool for BFY soda? Lots to discuss. We also sit down with Dan Grim, the CEO of functional drink manufacturer Lucky To Be Beverage Co. Show notes: 0:45: D2, Not 3. Sign Up, Meet Up. Pitch & Catch. Color Us Intrigued. Dogfight. Pouch Bites, Vodka & Saints. – The NCAA basketball tournaments generate some off-the-wall banter (wait, what’s Jacqui’s username?), before the hosts turn their attention to Taste Radio’s upcoming meetup in New York City and BevNET Live Summer 2025. Ray highlights West Virginia’s new law banning artificial colors in food and the rest of the hosts weigh in on its potential impact nationally. The news that Ben Stiller filed a trademark for a new low-sugar soda brand turned heads and inspired a chat about the actor’s most notable movies. The Newton crew munches on flavored dates, dried mango and granola clusters, before Jacqui talks about a “mindful” beverage brand. John has an unusual vodka at his side along with flasks of a NA gin analog. 28:51: Interview: Dan Grim, CEO, Lucky To Be Beverage Co. – Dan helms Lucky to Be Beverage, a San Diego-based provider of private label and co-packing solutions for functional beverage brands, as well as gummies, capsules, and tablets. At an event hosted by industry organization Naturally San Diego, Dan shares his expertise on the booming functional mushroom trend and the intricacies of the co-manufacturing business. From scaling beverage brands to ensuring the right partnership fit, Dan dives into some of the key elements that drive success in the ever-evolving wellness space. Brands in this episode: Polar, Guayaki, Harmless Harvest, Chobani, De Soi, Poppi, Health-Ade, Vive Organic, Cann, MALK, Liquid Death, Pepsi, Purely Sprouted, Senor Mango, True Dates, Broda, Mind Garden, Little Saints, Whims…

Taste Radio

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Elevator Talk: Herb & Orchid, Drop Needle Drinks, Fast Pickle, Edenesque, Nutrisurg 1:00:54

منذ 21 يومًا1:00:54

1:00:54

The latest installment of Elevator Talk features leaders from Herb & Orchid, Drop Needle Drinks, Fast Pickle, Edenesque, Nutrisurg. Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week’s special co-host is Rebecca Bernard, the founder of Empire City Brand Builders, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants. Founders and CEOs of early stage food or beverage brands are invited to join future shows to pitch their products, discuss recent news and get feedback from industry experts. It is free to participate and interviews are conducted remotely. Apply to participate in a future episode of Elevator Talk.…

Taste Radio

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Why A Financial Windfall Won’t Fulfill Caulipower’s Gail Becker… or Anyone Else 40:33

منذ 24 يومًا40:33

40:33

Gail Becker has a bold message for CPG entrepreneurs: if your brand isn’t built to truly improve the lives of your consumers, “you should stay the hell out.” As the founder of the trailblazing frozen food brand Caulipower, Gail has changed the way that millions of Americans think about comfort food. Caulipower offers gluten-free, better-for-you versions of traditional favorites, including its flagship cauliflower-based pizza crust, as well as chicken tenders, frozen pizzas, and pizza bites. With $100 million in annual sales and a presence in tens of thousands of retailers nationwide, including Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Whole Foods, Caulipower had made an indelible mark in the freezer aisle. In a candid interview featured in this episode, Gail talks about the most rewarding aspect of her entrepreneurial journey: the personal connection she’s built with her consumers. For Gail, it’s never been about the financial gain – it’s about making a difference. Gail opens up about the guiding principles behind Caulipower’s product development and how staying true to these values has fueled innovation, allowing her to meet real consumer needs while breaking industry norms. She also dives deep into how her leadership style has evolved as the company scales, and why staying grounded in core values is crucial, no matter how big the business gets. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Gail Becker, Founder, Caulipower – On location at the bustling Caulipower booth at Expo West 2025, Gail Becker discusses the brand’s new dill pickle pizza and why its launch took two years to bring to market. She explains the three core criteria that new products must meet and talks about the company’s commitment to making better-for-you options more accessible to a wider audience. Gail also shares how pushing boundaries is a key part of Caulipower’s mission. Gail also reflects on the early days of Caulipower, highlighting the hard work, energy, and sometimes unawareness of challenges that fueled its initial success. She also talks about her experience as the face of Caulipower, despite being a private person, and stresses the importance of knowing when to say no as a founder. Brands in this episode: Caulipower…

Taste Radio

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What Fueled Poppi’s $1.65B Payday? Plus, Musings From Miami. 1:08:52

منذ 27 يومًا1:08:52

1:08:52

Poppi just popped – big time. But was PepsiCo’s $1.65 billion acquisition driven by TikTok virality, perfect timing, or industry heavyweights like Rohan Oza? (Sorry, prebiotics, this one's not about you.) And now that the first major deal has landed, is the BFY soda space about to see a gold rush – or a bubble burst? The hosts break it all down. Plus, we revisit standout interviews from our Miami meetup with Koia’s Chris Hunter, Verlivest’s Ken Sadowsky, and Matriarch Wealth Management’s Stephen Santangelo. Show notes: 0:45: Ray, Animated. Talk The Talk. Humble Pie! Zero Function. Founder Tok. The Oza Effect. More To Come? THSee, Puff Corn & NPP. – Ray has a tell or a tic – it’s his signature and shares a reminder to watch OR listen to Elevator Talk. John hands a slice to Ray – who gobbles it up – before opining on the value of Poppi’s prebiotics in its growth and how the company and Olipop cracked the seemingly impenetrable CSD category. Jacqui talks about the impact of Poppi co-founder Allison Ellsworth’s early adoption of TikTok on the brand’s development, Mike discusses how investor Rohan Oza affected its trajectory and John offers a prediction on what’s next for BFY CSDs. Ray shares another kind of “pop,” Mike and John crack open a couple of canna-bevs and Jacqui highlights a “salty” chili jam. 33:12: Interviews: Stephen Santangelo, Founder, Matriarch Wealth Management; Ken Sadowsky, Sr. Advisor, Verlivest; Chris Hunter, Co-Founder, Koia & Four Loko – Stephen and Ken discuss their investment strategies in food and beverage startups, emphasizing founder passion, scalability, and emerging trends like health-conscious drinks. Stephen highlights Matriarch’s focus on private investments in brands such as No Bull and Junkless. Ken shares insights on personal investments in emerging brands Neau Water and Parch, while also noting Miami's growing food and beverage startup ecosystem. Chris reflects on balancing entrepreneurship with family and how his businesses evolved alongside his lifestyle. He also underscores the importance of velocity in CPG success, advocating for strong regional traction before national expansion, along with strategic pricing, in-store promotions, and consumer engagement. Brands in this episode: Poppi, Olipop, Culture Pop, SmartWater, Vitaminwater, Pop & Bottle, Gorilla, Brez, Pink Salt, Like Air, Neau Water, BodyArmor, No Bull, Junkless, Vive Organic, Parch, Koia, Four Loko…

Taste Radio

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Wild By Nature, Strategic By Design. It’s Why Wildwonder Is Surging. 35:18

منذ 4 weeks35:18

35:18

Wild is woven into the fabric of her brand’s identity. But Rosa Li’s methodical, strategic approach to building a successful and respected CPG company stands in contrast to the untamed energy her products represent. Rosa is the founder and CEO of Wildwonder, a sparkling beverage brand that is infused with prebiotics and probiotics. Launched in 2020, the AAPI-founded company describes itself as “rooted in culture,” offering USDA organic drinks that taste as fresh and vibrant as a California produce stand. Flavors like Raspberry Lychee, Strawberry Passion, and Guava Rose come to life in 12 oz. slim cans, each containing five grams of prebiotic fiber, six grams of sugar, and 40 calories. Wildwonder is available nationwide, including at Whole Foods, Sprouts and The Fresh Market, as well as select Target and Costco locations. In this interview, Rosa shares how a focus on steady, incremental growth has been key to maintaining Wildwonder's integrity. She discusses how the brand aligns its expansion with core values, its unique position at the intersection of kombucha and soda, and the power of social listening in shaping the company’s future. Show notes: 0:25: Interview: Rosa Li, Founder & CEO, Wildwonder – On location at Expo West 2025, Rosa chats about how attendees interacted with Wildwonder at its booth, how her grandmother inspired the creation of the brand and its evolution in messaging and packaging – from glass to aluminum cans. She also talks about how consumers compare Wildwonder to kombucha, why she will not describe the brand as a “soda,” what she views as the best merchandising opportunity for the products and how its pricing and retail strategy are interwoven. Rosa also discusses how she met buyers from major retail chains, demand planning and supporting the brand at the store level, managing the company’s co-packer relationships, especially when challenges arise, and how listening to consumers has guided Wildwonder’s innovation and marketing efforts. Brands in this episode: Wildwonder, Olipop, Poppi, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, GT’s Living Foods, Nona Lim…

Taste Radio

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Elevator Talk: Big Mama’s, Cob, Tierra Negra, La Gringuita, Muria 1:03:30

منذ 4 weeks1:03:30

1:03:30

Elevator Talk, BevNET's bi-monthly video series that highlights early-stage and disruptive food and beverage brands, is now part of Taste Radio! Beginning today, you can listen to the audio from every new episode via the Taste Radio feed on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all of your favorite listening platforms. This edition of Elevator Talk features leaders from Big Mama’s Backyard Garden, Cob, Tierra Negra, La Gringuita, and Muria Foods. Our special co-host is Amrit Richmond, the founder of Indie CPG and Supermercato, who shared her thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants.…

Taste Radio

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Introducing... Nombase! 11:42

منذ 5 weeks11:42

11:42

We're launching something BIG at BevNET, NOSH, and Brewbound, and you're invited to be the first to see it! Introducing Nombase — a new digital community and directory built for the CPG world. Nombase connects CPG professionals with trusted industry partners, AI-powered insights, timely conversations, company announcements, and job opportunities — all in one place. Join us for an exclusive overview, product demo, and info on how to take advantage of what Nombase has to offer you.…

Taste Radio

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Did Expo West Actually Deliver? It Depends On Who You Ask. 31:04

منذ 5 weeks31:04

31:04

We're not exactly at odds, but there's definitely some healthy debate among the hosts around how to assess Expo West 2025. And it turns out, we're not alone. The biggest question on everyone's mind: how do we truly evaluate innovation, and what does it mean for the future of the food and beverage industry in the near term? Show notes: 0:25: Burner Apartment. ET x TR. Nom, Nom. Incremental Optimism. Snax & Bevs. Horny Goat Hummus. – Ray is in secret agent mode and shares a big announcement about Elevator Talk. Jacqui and Mike spill the goods on Nombase . John talks about why some folks misread innovation exhibited at Expo West, but Ray, of course, still has questions. Jacqui highlights the possibility of a market correction, while Mike hails business fundamentals before getting excited about fruit bites and protein powders. John gets giddy about hummus and Jacqui shares a tingly product that makes some of the hosts blush. Brands in this episode: Blue Hour, Cob, PWR-UP, Palmas, PKN, Jubilees, swinger, ISH, Pistakio, Joon, HYQ, Pulpito, Crushed Tonic, Honey Mama’s, Onyx Coffee, Drywater, Ithaca Hummus, Graza, Cedar’s, Cookie Chachi, Charmlee, Sturdy Sauce…

Taste Radio

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Finding Whitespace – And A $600 Million Brand – In The ‘Wilderness’ 31:29

منذ 5 weeks31:29

31:29

Dr. Pat Heist may not be the first rock musician to successfully launch and sell a spirit brand (shoutout to Sammy Hagar), but he could very well be the first to do so with a Ph.D. in plant pathology. Known as "Dr. Pat" to many, he is the co-founder of Wilderness Trail, a craft whiskey distillery based in Danville, Kentucky, renowned for blending modern scientific innovation with traditional distilling techniques. In 2012, alongside his long-time business partner Shane Baker, Dr. Pat launched Wilderness Trail, combining their extensive expertise in advising other spirit companies on production and fermentation. Their first product debuted in 2018, and since then, the brand has built a reputation for its exceptional bourbon and rye whiskey. In a major milestone for the distillery, Italian spirits giant Campari acquired a 70% stake in Wilderness Trail in October 2022, valuing the deal at $420 million, with an option to purchase the remaining 30% in 2031. At that time, the full ownership of the brand was estimated at an impressive $600 million. In this engaging interview, Dr. Pat offers a deep reflection on his entrepreneurial journey and shares invaluable advice for any aspiring founder, including the pitfall of prioritizing branding over developing a high-quality product and how to strategically enhance a brand's image among key gatekeepers and influencers. Additionally, he discusses the partnership with Campari, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the collaboration began, and his assessment of the timing and opportunity that led to the investment and eventual acquisition. Show notes: 0:32: Interview: Dr. Pat Heist, Co-Founder, Wilderness Trail – Speaking from his office in Washington, D.C., Dr. Pat shares his passion for rock music and his current band before discussing the growth of Ferm Solutions, the yeast and enzyme supplier he co-founded with Shane in 2006. Drawing from insights gained by working with over a thousand distilleries, he explains how these experiences helped shape Wilderness Trail, ensuring the distillery’s efficiency and avoiding common pitfalls. Dr. Pat highlights the unique sweet mash process and the industry relationships that set the brand apart, noting how the ability to make quick, decisive moves without bureaucratic delays was a key advantage. He also reflects on the partnership with Campari, emphasizing that it was driven by more than just financial gain, but by shared values and a long-term vision. Brands in this episode: Wilderness Trail, Rabbit Hole Distillery, Campari…

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