Healthy Hustle Spotlight

In this episode, Ellen Macks, founder and CEO of Ella's Flats, shares her journey of creating a plant-based snack that caters to health-conscious consumers. From her kitchen beginnings to national distribution, Ellen discusses the shift in consumer preferences towards whole foods, the rigorous recipe development process, and the importance of listening to customer feedback. She emphasizes the significance of certifications, allergen-friendly strategies, and understanding the competitive landscape. Ellen also reflects on the operational challenges of growth, and the importance of simplicity in growth strategy.

If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ariana Korman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Madi Lieber, Head of Brand and Strategy at Gorgie, discusses the brand's rapid growth and unique positioning in the energy drink market. She shares insights into Gorgie's origin story, the importance of community engagement, and the brand's innovative marketing strategies. Madi emphasizes the significance of consumer feedback in product development and how Gorgie aims to create a product that resonates with a diverse audience while appealing to demographics that have been historically under-targeted . The conversation also touches on the challenges of entering a male-dominated industry and the brand's approach to building a loyal customer base through unique experiences.

If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ariana Korman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Karen Lauterstein, founder of Sattva Vida, shares her transformative journey creating a successful plant-based snack company after leaving a 20-year corporate career. She discusses the significance of mentors and peer-support in the healthy food and beverage business, and the importance of tenacity in going after opportunities. Karen emphasizes the importance of an open mind, flexibility, and asking the right questions when working with prospective retail partners, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a leap into the food space.

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If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ariana Korman⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Michael Salerno, Managing Principal at Wheelhouse 360, shares his experience in growth-stage venture capital, emphasizing the importance of branding and the evolving landscape of consumer brands. He discusses the challenges faced by founders, the significance of authentic influencer marketing, and the promising future of health and beauty markets. Salerno also provides valuable advice for founders seeking funding, and highlights the need for strong management teams in navigating the current climate.

In this episode, Michael Brandt, co-founder and CEO of Ketone IQ, discusses the evolution of his company, growing a mainstream audience from a niche base, the role of personal professional branding, and strategic partnerships in the competitive energy drink market. He emphasizes building credibility through partnerships, and the benefits and challenges of a single-product brand. He shares insights on leadership and strategic goals for the future.

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If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ariana Korman⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this conversation, Jake Kneller, co-founder and CEO of Sweet Nothings, shares insights into the journey of building a healthy snack brand from inception to current success. He discusses the importance of co-founder dynamics, product development goals, and the significance of consumer feedback. Jake also highlights their retail and point-of-sale marketing strategy, targeting diverse demographics, and the benefits and challenges of expanding into product lines with differing manufacturing and merchandising.

If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠⁠⁠Ariana Korman⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Michelle Razavi and Nikki Elliott, co-founders of Elavi, share their journey of creating a health-focused snack brand that prioritizes low-sugar, high-protein products. They discuss go-to-market strategies, the importance of community engagement, and their iterative approach to product development. The duo reflects on their fundraising journey, emphasizing the significance of finding the right investors and maintaining a focus on sustainability and profitability. They highlight the evolving landscape of consumer packaged goods and the role of social media in building brand awareness and connection.

If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠⁠Ariana Korman⁠⁠.

In this episode, Lauren Picasso, founder and CEO of Cure Hydration, shares the journey of creating a premium electrolyte drink mix that emphasizes clean ingredients and scientific backing. She discusses the impact of COVID-19 on consumer behavior, the unique benefits of FSA eligibility, and the shift from ready-to-drink products to powdered solutions. Lauren also highlights the role of a medical advisory board in establishing credibility, the value of differentiated retail partners, the success of their subscription DTC model, and her experience fundraising.

Kaitlin Mogentale, founder of Trashy (formerly Pulp Pantry), shares her journey as a food waste warrior and entrepreneur. She discusses the origins of her upcycled food brand, the importance of consumer engagement, and the challenges of sustainable branding. Kaitlin reflects on her experience on Shark Tank, the rebranding process from Pulp Pantry to Trashy, and the significance of mentorship in her entrepreneurial journey. She emphasizes the future of upcycled foods and the potential for B2B opportunities as she grows her platform.

If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact ⁠Ariana Korman⁠.

Join us on Healthy Hustle Spotlight, where we elevate the voices of industry leaders, innovative companies, and unique investors in the health and wellness space. Each episode dives deep into the inspiring stories behind the brands shaping the better-for-you consumer packaged goods (CPG) landscape. We unpack the latest trends, share valuable leadership insights, and foster connections across the industry.

If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.