The Firebelly Social Show

Eric Martindale is the Founder and CEO of Elite Commerce Group, a full-service agency specializing in Amazon and retail media. Under his leadership, the company has driven over half a billion dollars in retail sales for clients, maintaining a strong focus on testing and innovation to stay at the forefront of digital marketing. A former Marine officer and adventure athlete turned e-commerce authority, Eric is also a passionate technocrat interested in futurism. His unique perspective stems from identifying and exploiting retail frontiers before they become mainstream. 

As the retail landscape undergoes a seismic shift driven by automation and the pervasive influence of digital media, businesses face a complex yet exciting frontier. The future of retail is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancements; it requires a proactive approach that blends innovation with strategic agility. So, what strategies must companies that aspire to thrive in this new era implement?

Digital marketing expert Eric Martindale delves into the e-commerce and retail media world, providing invaluable insights into the latest innovations and trends reshaping the industry. He reveals how his agency has driven over half a billion dollars in retail sales through a strong emphasis on innovation and testing, helping brands to navigate the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape. From discussing the role of futurism in business to the profound impact of automation in retail, Eric provides actionable strategies for mission-driven food and beverage brands aiming to excel.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Eric Martindale, Founder and CEO of Elite Commerce Group, about future-focused strategies for brand success in retail. Eric discusses the value of a strong retail media plan, the future of automation and its impact on retail and fulfillment, and the value of adopting a culture of innovation and testing within your agency.

Raina Kumra is the Founder and CEO of Spicewell, a food brand focused on increasing micronutrient intake by enhancing everyday spices such as salt and pepper. She is redefining the concept of food as medicine by prioritizing ethically sourced, nutrient-enriched spices. With experience as an advisor to Google X and a partner leading healthcare and consumer deals at The Fund LA, Raina's expertise extends to digital and organizational transformation as the CEO of Juggernaut. In addition to her business acumen, she's committed to social impact through partnerships with organizations like the Desai Foundation.

In a world where food isn't just about sustenance but also healing, what role do spices play in our everyday health? How are they used to bridge the gap between flavor and medicine, and what ancient practices are being revamped for modern kitchens?

Raina Kumra, a highly creative operational leader, tackles these questions with innovative approaches to food as medicine. She shares how her journey of healing her family with spices motivated her to start Spicewell. She highlights the untapped potential of spices beyond cooking, emphasizing their health benefits rooted in Ayurvedic traditions. Raina elaborates on the powerful properties of spices like turmeric and pepper, discussing their anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits. Her insights reveal a fascinating intersection of culinary arts and health science, offering listeners a fresh perspective on everyday ingredients.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Raina Kumra, Founder and CEO of Spicewell, about the power of spices in food and health. Raina shares the history and critical importance of spices in our diet and global culture, the game-changing health benefits of spices, the inspiration behind creating Spicewell, and the importance of ethical spice sourcing.

Bryn Jones is the VP of Marketing of Huse Culinary, an upscale restaurant and retail food group based in Indianapolis. Huse Culinary owns and operates six restaurants and four restaurant brands, including St. Elmo Steak House, 1933 Lounge, Harry & Izzy’s, and The HC Tavern + Kitchen.

Bryn has spearheaded the expansion of the iconic St. Elmo Steak House cocktail sauce to 3,000 locations both regionally and nationally and launched the spirit side of the business with the introduction of vanilla cherry bourbon. His experience spans marketing to operations, with a keen ability to drive product innovation and market expansion. He is also the Founding Partner of Joey Chestnut Eats, a condiment brand with Joey Chestnut.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to elevate a storied brand to new heights without losing its soul? Navigating the complexities of production, branding, and market expansion is challenging, even for well-established companies. So, can steadfast dedication to quality and innovation create an impact in the competitive world of food and beverage?

Marketing expert Bryn Jones unpacks the nitty-gritty of building and expanding mission-driven food and beverage brands. Drawing on his experience with iconic names like St. Elmo Steak House, he shares his journey from promoting the renowned steakhouse to launching wildly successful products such as the vanilla cherry bourbon, Rare Saint Whiskey, and the all-new Barkeep Vodka. Bryn emphasizes the power of a great product, the importance of storytelling, and how strategic market positioning can make or break a brand.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Bryn Jones, VP of Marketing of Huse Culinary, about expanding iconic restaurant products into national retail markets. Bryn discusses how Huse Culinary helps restaurant brands thrive, the challenges and strategies in product expansion, the backstory of the vanilla cherry bourbon, Barkeep Vodka, and Rare Saint Whiskey, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Eric Gutknecht is the CEO of CharcutNuvo, a company with a long-standing family tradition of sausage-making originating in Switzerland. As a fourth-generation sausage maker, he upholds his family's Swiss culinary heritage, producing what the company touts as the cleanest sausage in the US. Not only a savvy entrepreneur, Eric is an avid triathlete who uses his product to fuel his athletic endeavors. Under his leadership, CharcutNuvo has gained global recognition by achieving Regenerative Organic Certification, a testament to its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. 

In today's ever-changing business world, combining mindful eating with entrepreneurial innovation has the potential to redefine industry norms. Imagine a company that seamlessly integrates four generations of sausage craftsmanship with a commitment to excellence and ecological stewardship. Could this unique fusion of heritage, performance, and sustainability create a captivating story of business transformation and societal impact?

A fourth-generation sausage maker, Eric Gutknecht, shares his journey from growing up in a sausage-making family to leading the only sausage brand globally to earn the prestigious Regenerative Organic Certification. He reveals the challenges of maintaining a clean, premium product while promoting regenerative agriculture and supporting community initiatives. He also touches on his approach to business and his athletic pursuits, illustrating how the discipline of a triathlete mirrors the precision and dedication required to run a food manufacturing brand.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Eric Gutknecht, CEO of CharcutNuvo, about redefining the organic sausage industry. Eric discusses how early involvement in a family business can shape a leader, CharcutNuvo's philosophy and operations, the benefits of deliberate sourcing, in-house manufacturing, and dedication to improving the community and environment.

Josh Sizemore is a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich history in the food and beverage industry, spearheading a swanky new pizza lounge to contribute to a groundbreaking, health-oriented snack brand. He was the CEO of Beloit Kombucha Company, a venture-backed kombucha brand with an unusual but unbelievable form factor. He is an entrepreneur with multiple successful ventures, including The CITRUS, EZ-Beverages, and Bleu'print Hospitality. Josh serves on the board and as a C-suite executive of several organizations, including the University of California, Riverside, Lionchase North America, and Create Good Foods. He is passionate about health, fitness, and helping others live their lives to the fullest.

Navigating the dynamic and competitive landscape of the food and beverage industry requires more than just ambition. Understanding the nuances of this industry and the art of thriving within it is a pursuit that many are eager to embark upon. So, what can one glean from the experiences of those who have not only weathered the challenges but have also seized the abundant opportunities this industry has to offer?

Serial entrepreneur Josh Sizemore takes us through the exciting world of food entrepreneurship, sharing stories and lessons from opening his restaurant and upcoming venture into health-focused snack brands. He talks about the joy of creating businesses prioritizing customer experiences and the importance of personal health and well-being in entrepreneurship. Josh also delves into new and innovative food products that continue to shape consumer preferences, highlighting the balance each founder must strike between hustling for success and preserving vital downtime.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Josh Sizemore, a seasoned entrepreneur, about his journey in the food and beverage sector. Josh discusses his latest new restaurant venture and its thoughtful approach to hospitality, the impact of personal hardships and health scares on his perspective on life and entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and insights on the rising "better for you" food trend.

Aisha Chottani is the Founder and CEO of Moment, a brand dedicated to improving mental wellness through adaptogen-infused beverages. A Harvard graduate and former McKinsey consultant, she channels her expertise and global background into crafting drinks that promote stress management. Aisha's products are crafted from natural ingredients like ashwagandha and L-theanine to encourage balance and mental clarity. Under her leadership, Moment has expanded internationally, collaborating with major distributors and retailers, and she has successfully navigated business challenges, including her appearance on Shark Tank and launching the brand during the pandemic.

A world saturated with stress often holds little room for self-care. Many people seek that perfect balance between a busy lifestyle and moments of tranquility. What if there's a product that tastes delicious and also promotes mental well-being?

Aisha Chottani dives into her path from a stressful corporate job to creating a beverage brand that champions mental wellness. Her global upbringing and professional background led her to craft adaptogen-infused drinks, providing a delicious way to manage stress. With each flavor, she aims to balance bodily wellness with pure enjoyment. She also discusses the benefits of ashwagandha and L-theanine, two fundamental ingredients in Moment's drinks. Balancing her work-life dynamic while running a startup with her husband, Aisha shares how embracing tough decisions is crucial for entrepreneurial success.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Aisha Chottani, Founder and CEO of Drink Moment, about creating a beverage that encourages calmness and mental clarity. Aisha discusses how businesses can address larger societal issues, shares her social media engagement strategies, explains the intention behind creating the Strawberry Rose flavor, and offers tips for maintaining a positive dynamic when working with a spouse in a startup.

Carlee Kelly is the Founder and Chief Product Innovator of Lettuce Eat, a company that elevates your commercial food concept and scale for international markets. A seasoned food and beverage industry expert, she is fondly known as a business-savvy entrepreneur and a nutrition science nerd. She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in nutrition, channeling her passion for enhancing the food landscape toward mission-driven endeavors. Carlee specializes in plant-based nutrition and allergen-friendly foods, creating accessible, nutritious options for packaged goods. Her deep knowledge of nutrition, food systems, and business strategy makes her a valued partner to brands aiming to make a positive impact through their products.

With so many healthy options in the market, it's hard for customers to discern which products meet their nutritional needs. However, the intersection between business viability and consumer health is achievable in today's food landscape for food companies. But how can these brands achieve quality over convenience?

Food and beverage industry expert Carlee Kelly shares her experiences helping brands navigate the complex food and beverage innovation space. Having a grounded perspective as a nutritionist with an entrepreneurial vision, she sheds light on integrating innovation with nutrient density and quality in the food and beverage industry. She emphasizes the importance of brands maintaining authenticity to realize health-focused ideals despite the business challenges that come with it. Carlee dives into the significance of adaptogens, nutrigenetics, and microbiome health, highlighting how they're shaping the future of what we eat.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Carlee Kelly, Founder and Chief Product Innovator of Lettuce Eat, about innovative food development and nutrition science. Carlee shares her unique route into food innovation, the importance of meeting consumer health needs within a challenging food landscape, microbiome health and its role in today’s food choices, and the complexity behind project management in food innovation and product development.

Nadia Liu Spellman is the CEO and Founder of Dumpling Daughter, a Boston Area restaurant chain specializing in homestyle, authentic Chinese dishes with a focus on dumplings, buns, and noodles. Inspired by her family's rich culinary heritage, she launched Dumpling Daughter in 2014, successfully extending her family's legacy into the modern food scene. Nadia combines a passion for food with a drive to celebrate and preserve the memory of family gatherings centered around delicious meals. As an author, she has encapsulated the essence of her cultural experiences and recipes in a book, sharing her journey and flavors with the world.

Have you ever experienced the nostalgic bliss of biting into a dumpling that instantly transports you back to a moment of pure comfort? Can culinary traditions serve as the foundation for a thriving business? What if those traditions also told a story—a legacy of shared meals and family gatherings?

Successful entrepreneur Nadia Liu Spellman delves into how she transformed her treasured family experiences into a flourishing business that resonates with food lovers nationwide. She shares the motivation behind pursuing her passion, sparked by early memories of her parents' celebrated restaurant and intimate family dumpling-making gatherings. Nadia emphasizes the importance of preserving these stories and recipes for future generations, offering a sense of her family's history while bringing the warmth and comfort of traditional food to households through her book. She offers rich anecdotes on the deep connections between food, culture, and family, explaining how her parents' restaurant and grandmother's cooking techniques inspired her ventures.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Nadia Liu Spellman, CEO and Founder of Dumpling Daughter, about turning cherished memories into a unique culinary brand. Nadia shares how she grew her brand while maintaining the essence of her family's culinary legacy, the role of social media in reaching new customers, the inspiration behind her cookbook, and marketing strategies for boosting the visibility and growth of a food business.

Ted Dumbauld is the Founder and Co-CEO of SoNo 1420, an American maritime distillery renowned for its unique spirit offerings and award-winning bourbons. Under his leadership, SoNo 1420 has garnered double gold medals at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Ted is a former nuclear submarine officer and an MIT MBA holder who ventured into the medical cannabis industry before pivoting to the spirits world. He is also the creative mastermind behind Threesome Cocktails, an innovative ready-to-mix cocktail line that provides a fresh and interactive drinking experience.

Is there a blueprint for navigating uncharted waters of innovation and tradition in the spirit sector inundated with steadfast competitors? Could one man’s journey from military service to the financial world culminate in a groundbreaking foray into the alcohol industry?

Serial entrepreneur Ted Dumbauld shares how he drew from his diverse experiences to create SoNo 1420, blending the worlds of alcohol and cannabis to craft a unique and award-winning product line. He unveils the secret behind their double gold medal victories, providing insight into the innovating world of craft distilling and how staying true to local roots can add something special to your brand. Ted discusses making waves in the spirits world with unique products like Threesome Cocktails, redefining the premixed beverage segment by emphasizing freshness and the experience of crafting a cocktail. His story is a testament to the power of pivoting careers, the importance of resilience, and the role of marketing in the growth of a beverage company.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Ted Dumbauld, Founder and Co-CEO of SoNo 1420, about distilling and marketing in the spirits industry. Ted shares the inspiration behind starting SoNo 1420 at the intersection of alcohol and the evolving cannabis space, the story behind its naming, the innovative concept behind Threesome Cocktails, and the upcoming breakthroughs in THC-infused, non-alcoholic beverages.

Laura Jakobsen is the Co-founder and CEO of RIOT Energy, a brand focused on delivering clean, plant-powered energy drinks with zero artificial ingredients. As a former competitive ski racer, Laura brings an athlete's mentality to entrepreneurship, emphasizing perseverance and performance. She's passionate about challenging the status quo of the beverage industry and prioritizing consumer wellness above all. Laura has a history of leadership roles, including her impactful tenure in the C-suite at Pinkberry. She strives to make energy drinks that are both functional and health-conscious, aligning with her vision of making the world a better place.

Are consumers informed about what goes into their energy drinks? Between artificial sweeteners and ambiguous "natural flavors," finding a genuinely clean and healthy option can seem impossible. Is there a brand listening to consumers' demands for honesty and integrity in their beverages?

Laura Jakobsen, a successful entrepreneur in the beverage space, delves into how she tackled these issues by creating RIOT Energy. Obsessed with simple, clean ingredients, she discusses the value of listening to customer feedback and staying true to the brand's foundational values. She explains the importance of being agile and adaptive in messaging to bridge the gap between health-conscious individuals and mainstream consumers. Laura provides a deep dive into the challenges and insights of scaling a mission-driven brand in the competitive beverage market.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Laura Jakobsen, Co-founder and CEO of RIOT Energy, about creating a clean alternative in the energy drink industry. Laura talks about RIOT Energy's fight against artificial ingredients and commitment to natural alternatives, how a genuine commitment to health and wellness trends can shape product development, approach to innovation and customer feedback, and self-care strategies for balanced entrepreneurship.