Cale Nelson is the Chief Commercial Officer of Local Hive Honey, a brand with a century of heritage in producing 100% US local raw honey. With a keen focus on innovation and sustainability, Cale leads the brand's expansion into new product categories, including a line of honey-based hot sauces. He champions the importance of supporting local American beekeepers, both for quality products and for the essential role of pollinators in agriculture. By prioritizing consumer needs and leveraging extensive market research, Cale has driven Local Hive Honey to be a leading contender in the natural and conventional channels. 

Elizabeth Corbett is the President of Enterprise Sales at AE Global, a custom packaging design and supply chain solutions provider. With over two decades of experience, she has developed sustainable packaging solutions for prominent brands such as Starbucks, Tiffany & Co., and Estée Lauder. Specializing in the cannabis sector for the past eight years, Elizabeth is passionate about creating environmentally responsible and sustainable packaging solutions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Business from the University of Oregon and is a founding member of Seattle Women in Business for Good.

Mercedes Tarantino is the Director of Sales Enterprise at AE Global, a leading packaging solutions company based in Miami, Florida. She plays a key role in shaping the company's sales strategies and building strong client relationships. Mercedes holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on marketing from East Carolina University and was an active member of the Alpha Phi fraternity. Her commitment to sustainability is evident through participating in events like Natural Products Expo West, where she discusses certified plastic-negative solutions for brands.

Björn Steinar Jónsson is the Founder and CEO of Saltverk, an Icelandic company renowned for its sustainable, hand-harvested sea salt produced using geothermal energy. After completing his engineering studies in Copenhagen and working at IBM, he returned to Iceland in 2011 to revive the 18th-century tradition of salt-making in the remote Westfjords region. By harnessing the area's geothermal resources, Saltverk produces high-quality sea salt with zero carbon footprint, supplying top chefs and culinary enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond Saltverk, Björn co-owns Skál!, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant in Reykjavik, reflecting his deep passion for food and sustainability.

Linh Pham is the Co-founder and Creative Director of Pocket's Chocolates, a women- and AAPI-owned company based in Monrovia, California, specializing in oat milk chocolate snacks with innovative flavors and reduced sugar content. As Creative Director, Linh has played a key role in incorporating Asian-inspired flavors into the product lineup, including Vietnamese Coffee and Black Sesame. Her dedication to crafting high-quality, plant-based confections has earned significant recognition, such as the NEXTY Award for Best New Sweet Snack in 2023 for Pocket’s Black Sesame Chocolate Almonds.

Calum Haggerty is the Founder of UP-UP Chocolate, a company dedicated to producing single-estate, ethically sourced chocolate from Colombia. UP-UP guarantees 100% slave-free chocolate by eliminating intermediaries, verified through a Geneva-based NGO. Before launching UP-UP, Calum acquired COCO Chocolatier in 2013, transforming it into a renowned brand celebrated for its fusion of art and ethically sourced chocolate. He later founded OTHERLY, a B Corp-certified company specializing in oat milk-based chocolates.

Justin Durham is the CEO of Sisters Coffee Company, a family-owned business founded by his parents, Winfield and Joy Durham, in 1989. After earning his degree from Concordia University in Portland, he gained experience in the coffee industry before returning to Sisters around 2004 to assist in expanding the family enterprise. Under his leadership, the company has grown to operate three cafés — Sisters, Old Mill, and Pearl — and roasts approximately 500,000 pounds of coffee annually. Justin's commitment to honoring his parents' legacy while innovating for the future has been instrumental in the company's sustained success and recent brand refresh celebrating 35 years in business.

Jared Durham is the Chief Development Officer of Sisters Coffee Company, a family-owned business established by his parents in 1989. Alongside his siblings, he has been instrumental in expanding the company's presence, including overseeing the opening of a café in Bend's Old Mill District in 2021. His leadership emphasizes honoring the family's legacy while fostering innovation and growth within the coffee industry. Jared's dedication to the business has contributed to Sisters Coffee Company's reputation for quality and community engagement.

Jesse Durham is the Chief Strategy Officer of Sisters Coffee Company, a family business founded by her parents in 1989. Collaborating with her brothers, she has been instrumental in expanding the company's reach, including overseeing a significant brand refresh in 2024 to celebrate the company's 35th anniversary. Her leadership focuses on fostering transparency, fairness, and quality throughout the supply chain, and she has spearheaded initiatives such as transitioning to biodegradable packaging and supporting gender equity in coffee production. Jesse's dedication to innovation and community engagement drives Sisters Coffee Company's growth and reputation in the specialty coffee industry.

Navigating the ever-evolving food and beverage industry can be overwhelming for brands trying to stand out. With countless new products, shifting trends, and rising consumer expectations around health, sustainability, and transparency — how can emerging companies break through the noise and make a meaningful impact?

Guests like Cale Nelson, a specialist in honey-based product innovation, and Mercedes Tarantino, an expert in sustainable packaging, offer insights into how brands can differentiate through flavor, clean ingredients, and strategic presentation. Elizabeth Corbett emphasizes the importance of intentional booth engagement at trade shows, while Björn Steinar Jónsson underscores how authentic sustainability — like using geothermal energy for salt production — can resonate with buyers. Linh Pham and Calum Haggerty explore the value of oat milk in chocolate, and Justin, Jared, and Jesse Durham reflect on building a mission-driven coffee brand rooted in legacy, flavor, and community connection.

In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews food and beverage industry leaders about the intersection of sustainability and innovation in food. They share insights on geothermal salt production works, flavor trends, retail expansion, and consumer engagement. They also discuss oat milk chocolate, highlight branding through illustration, and share hot honey success.

Christina Appleton is the Founder of Appleton Consulting, and she handles all things marketing and e-commerce for Karma Nuts. She is a strategic marketer with over 15 years of marketing experience, a background in analytics and operations, and a successful track record of building brands and launching new products. Previously, Christina worked in marketing roles at Thrive Market, FOX Sports, NBCUniversal Media, Sony, and General Mills. Christina holds a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University and a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School.

Brooks Addington is the CEO of TÖST Beverages, a company renowned for its sophisticated, non-alcoholic sparkling beverages. With over two decades of experience in consumer goods and finance, he has successfully expanded TÖST's distribution to over 10,000 accounts across all 50 US states and eight countries. Under his leadership, TÖST has partnered with major national retailers such as Whole Foods Market, Sprouts, HEB, and Walmart. Additionally, Brooks serves as a board member and founding partner of the Adult Non-Alcoholic Beverage Association (ANBA), contributing to the growth and development of the non-alcoholic beverage sector. ​

Chie Addington is the Chief Administrative Officer at TÖST Beverages, a Vermont-based company specializing in sophisticated non-alcoholic sparkling beverages. She has been instrumental in managing and expanding TÖST since 2017, leveraging her diverse cultural experiences to build the brand. Chie is also an avid skier, having grown up skiing in Japan and now spending time at Bromley Mountain in Vermont with her family.

Matt McLean is the Founder and CEO of Uncle Matt's Organic, a leading producer of organic juices and beverages. Established in 1999, the company reflects Matt's dedication to healthy living and deep-rooted family history in Florida citrus farming. Under his leadership, Uncle Matt's Organic has become the nation's top-selling organic orange juice brand. Matt's commitment extends beyond business, as he actively promotes sustainable agriculture and the benefits of organic farming.

Michael Karkalis is the President and CEO of Flash Energy Drink, a company he founded in 2007 in Skokie, Illinois. Under his leadership, Flash Energy Drink has developed a line of clean energy beverages made with natural ingredients, including organic cane sugar, stevia, and monk fruit, offering 125 mg of caffeine per serving. The brand emphasizes health-conscious choices, providing non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly options with bold flavors like Wild Berry and Blueberry Coconut. Michael's commitment to quality and innovation has positioned Flash Energy Drink as a distinctive player in the energy beverage market.

Bill Loumbardias is the Brand Ambassador at Flash Energy Drink, a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio of business ventures in the Greater Chicago Area. He has owned and operated establishments such as Old Munich Tavern, LakeShore Motorcars, Brazza Coffee, SpyBar, Shell Oil, Wash Werks, and LA Tan. Bill's extensive experience in the hospitality and automotive industries highlights his versatile business acumen. His entrepreneurial endeavors reflect a commitment to delivering quality services and products across various sectors.

​John Horn is the Executive Vice President of Sales at Honey Smoked Fish, a Denver-based producer of sustainably sourced hot smoked salmon. Before joining Honey Smoked Fish, he served as Vice President of Business Development at Hofseth North America and held various roles at Mazzetta Company, LLC, including Director of Operations and National Sales Representative. John also has experience in the banking sector, having worked as a Licensed Banker at JPMorgan Chase and Senior Credit Manager at Wells Fargo. 

Shannon Argyros is the CEO and majority owner of Positive Beverage, a Newport Beach-based company offering zero-calorie, zero-sugar functional beverages. Under her guidance, Positive Beverage has earned certifications as a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and from the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), reflecting her commitment to diversity and excellence. Beyond her corporate role, Shannon is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting organizations like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Childhelp, and serves on the Board of Governors for the Argyros School of Business at Chapman University.

Breaking into the competitive food and beverage industry is no small feat — especially when trying to stand out with healthy and delicious products. With trends evolving rapidly and consumer expectations scaling higher, how can mission-driven brands create meaningful, memorable products while staying true to their values and resonating with today’s shoppers?

Guests like Christina Appleton, a product innovator in plant-based snacks, and Brooks Addington, an expert in non-alcoholic beverages, reveal that success starts with a strong brand story and a commitment to product integrity. Christina emphasized minimal ingredients and functional benefits in snacks, while Brooks and Chie Addington focused on meaningful sensory experiences in their sparkling beverages. Matt McLean stressed the importance of steeping traditions with bold innovation in teas, and Michael Karkalis and Bill Loumbardias showcased how energy drinks can be clean and flavorful. John Horn and Shannon Argyros added insights on sustainability, retail strategy, and clean-label beverage design.

In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews expert leaders about innovation and purpose in the natural food and beverage space. They discuss category expansion, navigating retail challenges, and product integrity. They also share insights on trends, flavor innovation, and brand accessibility.

Pedro Lamarre is the Co-founder of Wave, an innovative beverage company known for its organic, lightly carbonated refreshers infused with coconut water. Before co-founding Wave, he had a background in health and wellness, which influenced the brand's commitment to offering low-calorie, no-added-sugar drinks. Since its launch in February 2024, Wave has aimed to provide consumers with healthier beverage options that are both refreshing and flavorful. Pedro's passion for health-conscious products drives Wave's mission to innovate within the beverage industry.

Jennifer Draz is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager at Kerry, where she oversees digital strategies for brands such as Big Train, Oregon Chai, and Golden Dipt. With a robust background in digital marketing, Jennifer has been instrumental in enhancing brand visibility and engagement across various digital platforms. Her leadership has significantly contributed to the growth and recognition of these brands in the competitive food and beverage industry. Jennifer's expertise lies in crafting innovative marketing campaigns that resonate with consumers and drive business success.

Peter Gialantzis is the Chief Merchandising Officer at Pod Foods, a logistics-enabled, data-powered B2B marketplace for wholesale food distribution. With experience at powerhouse retailers like Whole Foods and Lucky’s Markets and leadership roles at KeHE, he brings a wealth of industry knowledge to Pod Foods. Peter is passionate about using real-time data and analytics to empower brands and retailers, striving for a grocery ecosystem prioritizing accessibility to quality foods. A believer in disruptive innovation, he aims to shift market share from large to smaller, innovative CPG brands, fostering growth and consumer choice in the retail landscape.

Steven Singer is the Founder and CEO of Fody Foods, a brand dedicated to providing gut-friendly, low-FODMAP products for people with digestive issues. Before Fody Food, he co-founded Glutino in 1999, a pioneering gluten-free brand that grew to annual sales of over $65 million before its acquisition in 2011. A Montreal native, Steven attended McGill University and initially worked as a textiles salesman before venturing into the specialty food sector. Under his leadership, Fody Foods has expanded its distribution to over 8,000 stores across North America, including major retailers like Whole Foods and Walmart.

Mika Shino is the Founder and CEO of Issei, a brand that has reimagined the gummy candy world with a heartfelt mission. Of Japanese heritage, Mika ventured into entrepreneurship to offer her children healthier candy options inspired by her native mochi. Her innovative product, the world’s first shelf-stable mochi gummies, has earned acclaim as the most innovative among thousands. With a profound background at the UN, Mika embeds a message of cultural inclusivity and the celebration of immigrant voices in her confections. Her journey from kitchen experiments to retail success embodies passion, heritage, and the power of a mother's love.

The food and beverage industry is more competitive than ever, with brands fighting for consumer attention in a crowded market. So, how do emerging brands stand out while staying true to their mission and values? At Expo West, some of the most innovative food and beverage leaders shared their insights on navigating this challenge while creating products that truly resonate with consumers.

Health and wellness advocate Pedro Lamarre emphasized the importance of differentiation and branding, positioning his product as a refresher rather than a traditional sports drink. Jennifer Draz, a marketing leader in the organic beverage space, highlighted the power of live consumer engagement and strategic sampling to build brand loyalty. Peter Gialantzis, a trend expert, noted a shift toward simple, high-protein ingredients, while Steven Singer, a pioneer in digestive health, stressed the importance of addressing consumer dietary needs with gut-friendly products. Mika Shino, an innovator in the sweets sector, shared how storytelling and cultural connections can make a product stand out.

In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews renowned leaders about trends, challenges, and strategies in the food and beverage industry. They discuss the challenges of launching a new beverage, the return of dairy and organic-focused products, and insights into the growing demand for simple, nutrient-rich foods. They also explore the impact of digestive health on consumer choices and reflect on the power of cultural storytelling in branding.

Laura Silverman is the Founder of Zero Proof Nation, one of the only fully comprehensive global resource hubs devoted to a nonalcoholic beverage culture. She got sober at 24, and today, she's a mental health advocate passionate about nonalcoholic beverages. As a serial entrepreneur, Laura is also the Founder of Booze Free in DC, The Sobriety Collective, and LMS Designs and is a Non-Alcoholic Drinks Industry Advisor at The Spearhead Group, Inc. In addition, she is a Web Manager and Podcast Producer at American Purpose.

Ian Blessing is the Co-founder of All The Bitter, a company specializing in handcrafted, alcohol-free cocktail bitters. With over 15 years in the food and beverage industry, he served as a sommelier at renowned establishments such as The French Laundry and Opus One Winery. In 2019, Ian and his wife, Carly, chose to abstain from alcohol, leading them to explore nonalcoholic beverage options. Under his leadership, All The Bitter has won 30+ major spirits awards, including IWSC's No/Low Spirit Producer of the Year, and is featured in top US bars like Death & Co, Trick Dog, and The Violet Hour.

Jeff Litcofsky is the Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Brandartica, a full-service product brand identity agency that delivers distinctive branding and marketing solutions. With decades of experience in the consumer electronics industry, he has expertise in global brand strategy, product marketing, direct-to-consumer sales, and operational management. Before joining Brandartica, Jeff held significant roles in the consumer electronics industry, including Global Brand Marketing Manager at Boston Acoustics and Director of Marketing & Communications at AudioXperts. He co-hosts 1seventh the podcast, where he engages with business leaders on unconventional approaches to success in both business and life.

The nonalcoholic beverage industry is booming, but many consumers still struggle to find high-quality options that offer the same depth and complexity as traditional cocktails. At the same time, small, independent bottle shops face mounting challenges in competing with larger retailers and educating customers on the value of premium NA products. So, how can craft beverage makers and retailers work together to elevate the experience for NA drinkers while ensuring small businesses thrive?

Ian Blessing, a former sommelier, and Laura Silverman, a longtime advocate for NA options, share their expertise in crafting flavorful, sophisticated drinks that rival their alcoholic counterparts. Ian explains how incorporating ingredients like amaro and bitters helps create a multi-dimensional drinking experience with a beginning, middle, and finish. Laura discusses the importance of community-driven collaborations and the role of independent bottle shops in shaping the NA movement. Together, they emphasize supporting small businesses, experimenting with complex ingredients, and making intentional beverage choices.

In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Ian Blessing, Co-founder of All The Bitter, and Laura Silverman, Founder of Zero Proof Nation, about the evolution of nonalcoholic beverages and their Cherry Coffee Blast collaboration. They discuss balancing flavors in NA cocktails, connecting consumers with NA-friendly retailers, the growing interest in mindful drinking, and the challenges of pricing NA products.

Jay Williams is the Founder and CEO of Free Bird, a Southern spring water brand launched in 2024. Sourced from Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Free Bird offers pure spring water in recyclable 19.2-ounce aluminum cans. Jay envisions Free Bird as a tribute to everyday heroes, celebrating simplicity, sustainability, and the American spirit. Under his leadership, Free Bird aims to provide clean, crisp refreshment while promoting environmental responsibility.

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. 

Samuel Anderson is a Managing Partner at BevAssets, a company focused on assisting beverage brands with distribution, operations, and logistics while promoting sustainable solutions. Known in the industry as "Beverage Man Sam," he has helped numerous brands navigate the complexities of the supply chain, contributing to their success in a market with a high failure rate. Besides his professional achievements, Samuel is an avid networker passionate about building community and meaningful connections. He also hosts the DRINK UP Podcast, where he shares insights and connects with professionals from LinkedIn.

Jeff Litcofsky is the Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Brandartica, a full-service product brand identity agency that delivers distinctive branding and marketing solutions. With decades of experience in the consumer electronics industry, he has expertise in global brand strategy, product marketing, direct-to-consumer sales, and operational management. Before joining Brandartica, Jeff held significant roles in the consumer electronics industry, including Global Brand Marketing Manager at Boston Acoustics and Director of Marketing & Communications at AudioXperts. He co-hosts 1seventh the podcast, where he engages with business leaders on unconventional approaches to success in both business and life.

The beverage industry is evolving faster than ever, with brands navigating fierce competition, shifting consumer preferences, and mounting supply chain pressures. Founders must simultaneously manage brand positioning, secure distribution, and leverage digital marketing to stand out. So, how can emerging beverage brands carve out space in crowded markets while staying authentic and driving sales?

Experts Jeff Litcofsky, a branding specialist; Jay Williams, a beverage founder; Eric Martindale, a retail media expert; and Samuel Anderson, a distribution strategist, share actionable insights to help brands succeed. Jeff stresses the importance of clear positioning and storytelling that resonate with modern consumers, especially in the growing non-alcoholic category. Jay highlights the power of personal branding and community support, while Eric offers strategies for blending retail media with traditional trade spend to accelerate in-store performance. Sam emphasizes the need for flexible, multi-channel distribution plans that adapt to evolving retailer demands.

In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Jeff Litcofsky, Partner at Brandartica; Jay Williams, Founder of Free Bird; Eric Martindale, Founder of Elite Commerce Group; and Samuel Anderson, Managing Partner of BevAssets, about strategies for building successful beverage brands in today’s competitive market. They also discuss the rise of functional beverages, the importance of LinkedIn for founders, and creative approaches to overcoming supply chain challenges.

Elizabeth Corbett is the President of Enterprise Sales at AE Global, a custom packaging design and supply chain solutions provider. With over two decades of experience, she has developed sustainable packaging solutions for prominent brands such as Starbucks, Tiffany & Co., and Estée Lauder. Specializing in the cannabis sector for the past eight years, Elizabeth is passionate about creating environmentally responsible and sustainable packaging solutions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Business from the University of Oregon and is a founding member of Seattle Women in Business for Good.

Creating sustainable, cost-effective, and innovative packaging is a challenge, especially as consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions rises. Businesses must balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility while maintaining affordability. So, how can companies navigate these competing priorities to develop packaging that resonates with customers and meets sustainability goals?

Elizabeth Corbett, a packaging innovation and sustainability expert, shares key insights on addressing these challenges. She emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainability from the start — considering material sourcing, recyclability, and refillable solutions. Elizabeth also highlights the role of design and branding, explaining how unique shapes and colors can make packaging iconic while remaining cost-effective. By leveraging technology, businesses can speed up prototyping and reduce costs without compromising quality.

In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Elizabeth Corbett, President of Enterprise Sales at AE Global, about the evolving world of packaging and sustainability. Elizabeth discusses the balance between innovation, cost, and eco-friendly materials, highlighting how brands can create outstanding packaging. She also explores the transformation of cannabis packaging, the role of technology in rapid prototyping, and the importance of aligning brand identity with packaging design.

Courtney O'Brien is the Founder and Managing Director of The Outlier Initiative, a boutique marketing consultancy that empowers growth-stage food and beverage brands to achieve breakout success. With over 22 years of experience, she has driven the growth of iconic beverage brands at global companies like Coca-Cola, Danone, and Gallo. Notably, Courtney played a pivotal role in transforming the newly launched Coke Zero into a billion-dollar brand and revitalizing Apothic Red, redefining its category. As a Certified StoryBrand Guide, she fosters deep emotional connections between brands and consumers through bold, inventive solutions.

Emerging food and beverage brands often struggle to stand out in crowded markets, relying on surface-level tactics rather than authentic storytelling. Without clear messaging and a cohesive brand identity, they risk blending in with competitors and failing to connect with their target audience. So, how can founders build memorable brands that resonate with consumers and drive long-term success?

Brand strategist Courtney O’Brien believes differentiation and storytelling are the keys to cutting through the noise. Drawing from her experience growing billion-dollar brands like Coke Zero and Apothic, she emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer psychology and creating brand strategies that make the customer the hero. Courtney encourages founders to focus on crystal-clear messaging, consistent touchpoints, and marketing tactics that align with their core values. She also advises brands with limited budgets to start locally, leverage their authentic stories, and avoid falling into “me too” branding traps that limit growth.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Courtney O’Brien, Founder of The Outlier Initiative, about helping challenger brands carve out their space in the food and beverage industry. Courtney shares her journey from leading Fortune 500 brand strategies to empowering underdog brands, key lessons from her time at Coca-Cola, trends shaping the future of the beverage market, and actionable advice for founders looking to strengthen their brand positioning.

Curtis Knight II is the CEO and Co-founder of Lemonicious Drink Co., a premium beverage brand crafting drinks with real fruit and exotic Turkish botanicals. He has successfully redefined ultra-premium beverages, gaining popularity at local markets and expanding to retail locations in the Tampa–St. Pete area. With a background in technology and leadership, Curtis transitioned from IT engineering to entrepreneurship, blending his expertise in operations and marketing. Passionate about authenticity and community, he partners with local farmers and donates products to charitable causes.

What makes a beverage not just a refreshing drink but an embodiment of authenticity and community? How does one seamlessly transition from a career in technology to crafting a premium beverage brand that stands out in a crowded market?

Curtis Knight II, a beverage innovator, shares his journey from tech to beverages, answering these questions. After identifying a gap in the market for authentic, high-quality drinks, he and his wife began crafting beverages using real fruits and Turkish botanicals, winning hearts at local farmers' markets. Their commitment to authenticity is also evident in their partnerships with local farmers, ensuring their drinks are refreshing and sustainably sourced. Curtis emphasizes the importance of using fresh, real ingredients, creating a 'lemon experience' akin to a wine tasting that captivates the customers and builds a community through flavor.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Curtis Knight II, CEO and Co-founder of Lemonicious Drink Co., about crafting premium beverages. Curtis discusses his journey redefining premium beverages with Lemonicious Drink Co., the importance of using real ingredients and the taste difference it makes, and how Turkish botanicals and local partnerships create unique flavor fusions.

Duncan Alney is the Founder and CEO of Firebelly Marketing, an award-winning, top-ranked agency that helps founders of mission-driven food and beverage brands grow their businesses and connect with their audiences through social media marketing. Duncan has worked in marketing for 30 years and brings his expertise in engaging with clients and rebuilding brands to each project. He has worked with top brands, including Netflix, Fiji Water, and Sony. Duncan is also the host of the Firebelly Social Show, a podcast featuring leaders and top entrepreneurs in the food and beverage space who are on a mission to make the world a better place.

Building and scaling a food and beverage brand is not an easy task. How do brands balance tradition with modern demands for sustainability and inclusivity? From exploring diverse flavors in the candy aisle to transforming barren lands into fertile soil, what innovative solutions can you learn from experts to reshape the food and beverage industry?

Duncan Alney, an online marketing veteran, and other renowned food and beverage industry leaders discuss how they tackled these challenges. They emphasize the significance of embracing cultural diversity, not just as a trend but as a way to enrich everyone's lives. The conversation then shifts to the importance of regenerative organic agriculture, stressing its role in restoring soil health and combating climate change. This approach, they argue, represents the gold standard in farming, countering the greenwashing prevalent in some sectors. Moreover, they delve into the magic of spices within Ayurveda, demonstrating how their medicinal properties can enhance flavor and health.

In this special compilation episode of the Firebelly Social Show, we revisit some of Duncan Alney's most memorable episodes. Featuring Mika Shino, Eric Gutknecht, Raina Kumra, Peter Gialantzis, and Joe Rotondo, these experts share business tips to thrive in the food and beverage industry.

Matthew Kubick is the Founder and President of Local Demo Service (Natural Brokerage), a company focused on helping mission-driven brands thrive in retail through in-store demos and strategic brand representation. With over 20 years of experience in the natural products industry, he has established a reputation as a trusted partner for emerging brands, leveraging his expertise as an athletic coach, brand ambassador, salesman, and entrepreneur. Matthew has also launched a YouTube channel called Sovereign Sustainability to educate people on sustainable living and wild foraging. His mission is to convert everyday shoppers into sustainable eaters to foster a healthier population, environment, and world.

The drive to make a genuine impact in the food and beverage industry can lead to an entrepreneurial journey filled with achievements and challenges. Have you ever wondered how to connect consumers to healthier, sustainable choices? How can mission-driven companies thrive in the competitive retail space while also emphasizing the importance of sustainability?

Matthew Kubick, a health and sustainability expert, talks about revolutionizing the food and beverage space and his expansive expertise in the CPG industry, particularly within the natural and organic products category. He explains why emerging brands are both the most challenging and rewarding to work with and how digital presence, including user-generated content, transforms traditional marketing strategies like product demos. Matthew presents the core philosophies behind Local Demo Service and Sovereign Sustainability, stressing the importance of reconnecting individuals to their food source for a sustainable future and better health.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Matthew Kubick, Founder and President of Local Demo Service, about building successful, mission-driven brands. Matthew discusses Local Demo Service and what it does, the mission behind Sovereign Sustainability on YouTube, essential strategies for effective product demonstrations, and the challenges and rewards of working with emerging brands.