Welcome back to another episode of Sipping Success, where host Casey Haakinson uncorks the latest in beverages and innovation. This time, we're pouring into the world of premium boxed wines with Jake Whitman, the visionary founder and CEO of Really Good Boxed Wine. Jake's journey from a classical brand builder at Procter & Gamble and a tech marketer in Silicon Valley to shaking up the wine industry is as rich and complex as the wines he champions. Join us as we delve into how Really Good Boxed Wine is challenging perceptions and delivering exceptional quality wine straight from the vineyard to your glass, all in an eco-friendly package.

Key Topics Discussed:

• 1:00 Min - The Journey to Really Good Boxed Wine: Jake shares his eclectic career path, from teaching in Philadelphia to branding at Gillette, and how a passion for entrepreneurship led him to reinvent boxed wine.
• 3:00 Min - Why Boxed Wine? Breaking down the stigma, Jake highlights the unparalleled benefits of boxed wine - from freshness and cost efficiency to its significant reduction in carbon footprint.
• 7:00 Min - The Growth Trajectory: Despite early challenges and consumer skepticism, Jake recounts the pivotal moments that confirmed Really Good Boxed Wine was onto something big, from sold-out pilot launches to expanding national interest.
• 10:00 Min - Inside the Box: Jake walks us through the carefully curated selection of vintage wines, from Sauvignon Blancs to Pinot Noirs, sourced from California's and Washington's finest vineyards.
• 13:00 Min - Expanding Palates and Horizons: While currently focused on West Coast vintages, Jake teases the possibility of introducing international wines, balancing the allure of global vineyards with the brand's sustainability ethos.
• 15:00 Min - Beyond Direct Sales: Exploring the expansion into wholesale and the unique challenges and successes encountered in bars, restaurants, and beyond.
• 18:00 Min - The Wine Club Experience: A deep dive into the flexible, customer-centric wine club that offers exclusivity, convenience, and a sense of community to wine enthusiasts.

Conclusion:

Jake Whitman's narrative is not just about crafting an excellent product but also about the audacity to dream big and challenge norms. Really Good Boxed Wine stands as a testament to innovation, sustainability, and the relentless pursuit of quality in the wine industry. Jake's insights provide invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on the power of differentiation, direct consumer engagement, and the importance of resilience in navigating the ebbs and flows of startup life.

Stay connected for more episodes that blend the art of beverages with the science of success. Remember, the best tales are those shared over a glass of wine—preferably, one that's really good and comes in a box.

https://www.mushroommedia.io/ 

https://reallygoodboxedwine.com/

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson engages in a fascinating conversation with Cori Omundson and Sandra Everingham, the visionary co-founders of Rising Wines Collective. Born from a shared passion for wine and a desire to connect small production vineyards with a wider audience, Rising Wines Collective seeks to bridge the gap between wine enthusiasts and the unique stories behind boutique wineries in Washington, California, and Oregon. Through their innovative platform, Cori and Sandra aim to curate an immersive experience that transcends traditional wine tasting.

Key Topics Discussed:

• 1:00 Min - The Genesis of Rising Wines Collective: Cori and Sandra recount their journey from long-lost childhood friends to business partners, driven by a mutual love for wine and community. They share the origins of their idea and how a pandemic-induced pivot led to the birth of their collective.
• 3:00 Min - Curating a Unique Wine Experience: The duo delves into the meticulous process of selecting wineries for their platform, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, wine quality, and creating a direct line from winemaker to consumer. They highlight how their backgrounds influenced the creation of a digital space that marries the craft of winemaking with consumer accessibility.
• 7:00 Min - Challenges and Adaptations: Reflecting on the hurdles faced in launching and growing their business, Cori and Sandra discuss navigating the complexities of the wine industry, from establishing trust with both winemakers and consumers to adapting their business model in a post-pandemic world.
• 22:00 Min - Strategies for Engagement and Growth: The conversation shifts to the innovative strategies employed by Rising Wines Collective to engage their audience, including leveraging digital platforms, creating interactive wine experiences, and fostering a sense of community among wine lovers.

Conclusion:

Cori and Sandra's journey with Rising Wines Collective illustrates the power of passion and innovation in the face of industry challenges. Their unique approach to connecting consumers with the rich stories and flavors of small production vineyards offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs in the beverage industry. The story of Rising Wines Collective is not just about wine; it's about creating connections, embracing change, and the relentless pursuit of bringing a vision to life in a competitive market. Cori and Sandra's insights underscore the importance of differentiation, direct engagement, and the continuous evolution necessary to thrive in the bustling world of wine.

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.risingwinescollective.com/

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson sits down with Vincent Melita, founder and partner of Root Out Whiskey. Root Out Whiskey blends the finest root beer flavoring with extensively aged Canadian blended whiskey, creating a unique taste experience that has been capturing the hearts of both whiskey enthusiasts and those new to the spirit. Vincent shares his journey through the beverage industry, from his early days in food and beverage to the inception of Root Out Whiskey, and provides valuable insights into the challenges and strategies involved in growing a niche brand in the competitive spirits market.

Key Topics Discussed:

• 1:00 Min  Vincent's Path to Root Out Whiskey: Tracing his roots from the food and beverage industry to launching Root Out Whiskey, Vincent discusses his passion for whiskey and how a love for root beer inspired the creation of this unique blend.
• 3:00 Min  Building the Brand: Vincent delves into the business strategy behind Root Out Whiskey, emphasizing the importance of tastings, events, and a selective market entry approach to nurture and expand the brand's presence.
• 7:00 Min Adaptation and Innovation: Reflecting on the adjustments Root Out Whiskey had to make, including trademarking challenges and label changes, Vincent highlights the importance of flexibility and protection of intellectual property in the spirits industry.
• 10:00 Min Engagement and Growth Tactics: Through grassroots efforts and leveraging social media, Vincent shares how direct consumer engagement and tastings have been pivotal in fostering growth and establishing Root Out Whiskey in 15 states and in Canada.

Conclusion:

Vincent Melita's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach to the whiskey market exemplify the journey of bringing a unique concept to life amidst the challenges of the beverage industry. Root Out Whiskey's story is not just about creating a distinctive flavored whiskey but also about the passion, dedication, and strategic thinking required to carve out a niche in a crowded market. Vincent's insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring beverage entrepreneurs on the importance of product differentiation, direct consumer engagement, and resilience in the pursuit of success.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

https://www.rootoutwhisky.com/

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson sits down with Mark Clinard, the esteemed owner of Both Barrels Wine, to uncork the secrets of the wine distribution business. Mark takes us on a journey from his unexpected start as a wine program manager to becoming a key player in wine importing and distribution, emphasizing the pivotal trends that have shaped the wine industry over the years. From the surge of Australian wines in the early '90s to the current fascination with old-world wines and Mediterranean blends, Mark provides a deep dive into the dynamics of wine preferences and market shifts.

Key Topics Discussed:

• 1:00 Min  Mark’s Origin Story in Wine: Starting as a bartender and thrust unexpectedly into managing a wine program, Mark shares how his passion for wine led him from retail to founding Both Barrels Wine, focusing on importing and distributing fine wines.

• 3:00 Min  Evolving Wine Trends: Insights into how wine trends have shifted from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere, with a current emphasis on old-world wines such as Pervalstra, Jose, and wines from Spain and Italy.

• 8:00 Min  Business Strategies for Success: Mark reveals his strategies for capitalizing on the seasonal peaks of the Miami market, focusing on independent restaurants and retailers to maximize distribution efficiency and profitability.

• 11:00 Min Adapting to Challenges: From overcoming the anti-French wine sentiment to navigating the impacts of COVID-19, Mark discusses the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the wine industry.

Conclusion:

Mark Clinard’s wealth of experience and innovative approaches to wine distribution offer invaluable lessons on market adaptation, trend anticipation, and strategic partnerships. His journey from bartender to wine distribution leader underscores the importance of passion, resilience, and a keen eye for evolving consumer preferences in achieving success in the competitive world of wine. As the beverage industry continues to evolve, Mark's insights provide a roadmap for emerging and established professionals alike to navigate the shifting tides of consumer taste and market dynamics.

Mushroom Media

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

Both Barrels Wine

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-clinard-66589a195/

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson welcomes Gabriella DeLorenzo, the Director of Digital Strategy at Mushroom Media. With a rich background in the beverage and spirits industry, Gabby shares her journey from a fresh college graduate to a key figure in digital marketing, working with notable brands like Grey Goose and Bombay Sapphire. This conversation dives into the importance of staying up-to-date with industry trends, the impact of cookie deprecation on digital marketing strategies, and the power of data-driven decisions in crafting successful campaigns.

Key Topics Discussed:

1:00 Min: Gabby discusses her entry into the media and spirits industry, highlighting her progression from working at media agencies to specializing in digital strategy for spirits brands. Her experience underscores the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in navigating the dynamic landscape of digital marketing.

4:00 Min: The discussion sheds light on how Gabby has navigated significant industry shifts, such as cookie deprecation, by staying informed and adaptable. She emphasizes the importance of innovative thinking and leveraging data to make informed decisions, ensuring brands remain competitive and relevant.

7:00 Min: Gabby shares insights into the tools and tactics that have driven success in her campaigns, stressing the value of analytics and a solid understanding of the brand's goals. She illustrates how different strategies are tailored to meet the unique needs of each brand, whether it’s driving awareness for a new product or enhancing brand recognition.

11:00 Min: Reflecting on the challenges faced in her career, Gabby highlights her work on a partnership between Grey Goose and The Spring Hill Company as a proud achievement. This collaboration exemplifies how creative integration and social media engagement can elevate brand presence and association with cultural icons.

Conclusion:

Gabby’s insights into the evolving world of digital marketing in the spirits industry provide valuable lessons on the significance of data, the impact of technological changes, and the strategies that lead to impactful brand campaigns. Her journey and achievements offer inspiration to current and aspiring media professionals aiming to make their mark in the digital realm.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gdelorenzo/

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson sits down with Amy Gardner, the president of Wine Talent, a recruitment firm nestled in the heart of California's wine country. With two decades of experience under her belt, Amy shares her journey from a scientific background to becoming a key player in wine industry recruitment. This discussion delves into the nuances of recruitment in the wine industry, the importance of building long-term relationships, and adapting to changes and challenges, including the impacts of social media and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Topics Discussed:

1:00 Min: From a farm upbringing and a degree in botany to the pivot into recruitment, Amy's path to founding Wine Talent is as rich and complex as the wines she loves. Her unique blend of scientific knowledge and business acumen has positioned her as a trusted recruiter in the wine industry.

5:00 Min: Amy recounts the early days of Wine Talent, the hurdles of establishing credibility, and the shift towards executive and upper-level management placements. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the industry's scientific and artistic sides, showcasing her deep connection to the wine world.

12:00 Min: From navigating the complexities of social media to maintaining confidentiality and trust in a "small-town" industry, Amy discusses the obstacles faced and overcome throughout her career. The pandemic posed significant challenges, but Amy's resilience and the essential nature of the wine industry allowed for continued growth and adaptation.

Conclusion:

Amy Gardner's insights into the recruitment landscape of the wine industry provide valuable lessons on career growth, the importance of relationships, and the ever-evolving nature of work in this sector. As Wine Talent continues to match skilled professionals with leading wine businesses, Amy's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to the changing tides of industry and technology.

Links for  Mushroommedia 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

Links for Wine Talent

https://winetalent.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/winetalent/

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson welcomes David Habib, the founder and CEO of Yo Mama's Foods, a company dedicated to revolutionizing the food industry with healthy and delicious pasta sauces, salad dressings, and condiments. David shares his journey from corporate America to launching Yo Mama's Foods in 2017, the challenges of navigating the food industry, and the pivotal role of e-commerce platforms like Amazon in expanding their reach.

Key Topics Discussed:

1:00 Min: The story behind Yo Mama's Foods, inspired by David's family and their approach to food as a unifying force. David discusses his transition from corporate America to entrepreneurship, fueled by a desire to offer healthier food options that reflect home-cooked meals.

4:00 Min: David outlines the initial struggles of starting Yo Mama's Foods, from learning the ropes of the food industry to finding reliable manufacturing partners. He emphasizes the importance of understanding unit economics, managing operations efficiently, and the decision to bootstrap the business for sustainable growth.

10:00 Min: A deep dive into how Amazon played a crucial role in Yo Mama's Foods' early success, becoming a bestseller in pasta sauce within months of launching. David highlights the advantages of e-commerce for brand visibility, customer feedback, and understanding market demand.

15:00 Min: David shares valuable insights for budding entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, resilience, and viewing challenges as opportunities to build a stronger business foundation. He encourages continuous improvement and adaptation as key to long-term success.

Conclusion:

This episode of Sipping Success offers an inspiring look at how passion, perseverance, and a commitment to health can transform the food industry. David Habib's journey with Yo Mama's Foods serves as a testament to the power of entrepreneurship in creating positive change and bringing healthier, more authentic food choices to consumers everywhere.

Links - Mushroommedia Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

 Website | LinkedIn 

https://yomamasfoods.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/yo-mama%27s-foods/

https://www.instagram.com/yomamasfoods/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCad5KgOCLQeNCPGvEjEakDQ

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson sits down with Scott Rickett, President and CEO of Bella Petite Beverages, a trailblazer in the creation of non-alcoholic, low-carb, low-calorie, and low-sugar alternatives to traditional beverages. Leveraging advanced technology and nanotechnology-infused hemp-derived CBD without THC, Bella Petite offers the natural antioxidants of wine coupled with the wellness benefits of the world’s finest CBD. 

Key Topics Discussed:

1:00 Min: From a vibrant career in the entertainment industry to pioneering in the non-alcoholic beverage space, Rickett shares his multifaceted journey and the inspiration behind Bella Petite Beverages.

5:00 Min: The process of dealcoholized wine while retaining its rich flavors and textures, and the groundbreaking use of nanotechnology for CBD infusion, are explored in depth. Rickett outlines the challenges of removing alcohol without compromising on taste and the advantages of nanotechnology in enhancing bioavailability and the consumer experience.

8:00 Min: Rickett discusses the hurdles of marketing CBD-infused products due to regulatory restrictions and the creative strategies employed to overcome these obstacles, including digital marketing and influencer partnerships.

Conclusion:

This episode offers a deep dive into the world of non-alcoholic and CBD-infused beverages, highlighting the creativity, scientific innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit driving Bella Petite Beverages. Scott Rickett's journey from music to beverage innovation underscores the limitless possibilities when passion meets purpose, offering inspiration to listeners at every stage of their professional journey.

Links - Mushroommedia 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

Links - Bella Petite Beverages

https://bellapetitebeverages.com/

https://www.instagram.com/bellapetitebeverages/

In this compelling episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson welcomes Jason Reposa, the innovative mind behind Good Feels, a company at the forefront of non-inhalable cannabis and hemp products. 

1:00 - 2:00 Min - From a tech enthusiast to a cannabis industry innovator, Reposa's entrepreneurial journey is both inspiring and instructive. His transition was fueled by personal experiences with cannabis, leading to a profound commitment to accessibility, quality, and consumer control over their experiences.

4:00 -  Reposa introduces good feels, explaining the company's focus on creating water-based cannabis products that offer a consistent, clean, and controllable experience. He delves into the technological advancements that allow for rapid onset times, transforming the traditional consumption of edibles.

8:00 - Good Feels' strategic move into the Texas market is discussed, highlighting the importance of regulatory environments in shaping opportunities for cannabis businesses. Reposa emphasizes the potential for increased consumer access through both licensed markets and direct-to-consumer sales.

Mushroom Media:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

good feels:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonreposa/ 

https://getgoodfeels.com/about 

In the latest episode of "Sipping Success," host Casey Haakinson interviews Ryan Thompson, founder of 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company. 

2:00 Min - Ryan shares his journey from bartending and restaurant ownership to establishing a successful whiskey distillery in Vail, Colorado. 

4:00 - 5:00 Min - The episode also delves into the company's diverse spirit offerings, including whiskeys, vodka, and brandy. 

11:00 Min - He discusses the importance of patience, passion for spirits, and the challenges of distribution in the beverage industry. 

26:00 - 28:00 Min - Ryan highlights the company's commitment to supporting military nonprofits and the significant influence of the 10th Mountain Army Division on his business. 

The episode offers the promo code [Sipping] for a discount on 10th Mountain Whiskey https://10thwhiskey.com/ products and Ryan's insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the beverage industry.

Links 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.instagram.com/mushroommedia.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/whiskeyryan/

https://10thwhiskey.com/