In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy is joined by Stephanie Berwick, founder of Pastazerts—the first brand to bring chocolate ravioli to market. Stephanie shares her unique journey from a two-decade career in fintech to launching a frozen dessert product that’s carving out a completely new category in CPG.

She discusses how early success in amateur cooking competitions sparked the idea, and walks through the practical steps she took to validate the concept, navigate production challenges, and transition from self-manufacturing to working with a co-manufacturer. Stephanie also opens up about the realities of bootstrapping a frozen brand, conducting a debt-based crowdfunding round, and the strategic rollout into retail and foodservice.

This episode is packed with valuable insights on innovation, retail readiness, and managing operational complexity in the frozen space.

Tune in now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Overview of Pastazerts
• Early Steps & Product Development
• Product Development and Scaling
• Retail & Distribution Strategy
• Frozen Category Challenges
• Funding and Financial Strategy
• Marketing and Community Building
• Advice for Entrepreneurs

Episode Links:

Website: https://pastazerts.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-berwick/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Grace's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Chris Szigeti, a seasoned tech consultant and emerging CPG founder, for an in-depth discussion on how artificial intelligence is transforming the consumer packaged goods industry.

Chris demystifies foundational AI models such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity, and shares practical strategies for integrating these tools into early-stage brand building. From conducting deep market research to creating AI-powered advisory boards, Chris outlines how solo founders can effectively leverage AI to streamline operations, accelerate development, and make more informed business decisions.

Drawing from his own experience building Froth and Honey, Chris offers a candid look at how AI can reduce overhead, enhance creativity, and help brands launch smarter and faster — even with limited resources.

If you're a CPG founder looking to better understand and apply AI in your business, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen in as they share about:

• AI and Foundational Models
• How to Use AI Effectively
• Practical Use of AI for CPG Brands
• Research & Strategy via AI
• Customizing AI Responses
• Using AI as a Virtual Advisor
• AI for Content Creation & Design
• How Chris Uses AI to Build His Brand
• Pros & Cons of AI

Episode Links:

Website: https://www.peakproductgroup.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisszigeti/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy sits down with Cynthia Duran, founder of Xinca Foods, one of the first Salvadoran frozen food brands in the U.S. market. Cynthia shares her inspiring journey from a career in tech at companies like Microsoft and T-Mobile to launching Xinca Foods—a brand rooted in heritage and dedicated to making high-quality frozen pupusas accessible across the country.

They dive into the realities of bootstrapping a CPG business, the importance of self-manufacturing to preserve authenticity, and the strategic decision to pause growth in order to focus on consumer awareness. Cynthia also opens up about the challenges of entering new markets, learning from on-the-ground demos, navigating distribution, and adapting packaging and pricing to meet regional demand.

Whether you're a founder, food entrepreneur, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of scaling a culturally rich food brand, this episode offers a candid look at the grit, strategy, and community that power Xinca Foods.

Listen in as they share about:

• Founding Story of Xinka Foods
• Bootstrapping and Self-Manufacturing
• Direct-to-Consumer to Retail Transition
• Retail and Distribution Strategy
• Packaging and Marketing Lessons
• Day-to-Day Operations
• Customer Feedback and Eating Creativity
• Startup CPG Community and Resources

Episode Links:

Website: https://xincafoods.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-duran-693410b9/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Grace's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with Adam Marsh and Gabrielle McGonagall from Giannuzzi Lewendon, one of the most trusted law firms for CPG founders. They break down everything early-stage founders need to know about setting up their companies, choosing the right entity (LLC vs. C-Corp), fundraising strategies, issuing equity to employees and advisors, and how to protect yourself from losing control of your business.

Adam and Gabby also unpack key differences between SAFEs and convertible notes, the pros and cons of crowdfunding, the reality of secondary sales for founders, and why having the right legal advisors is crucial—especially as you scale. Whether you're raising your first check or dreaming of a major exit, this conversation will set you up with the legal fundamentals to do it smartly and safely.

Ready to level up your founder knowledge? Listen now and get one step closer to building a company that lasts!

Contact Giannuzzi Lewendon for a consultation at https://gllaw.us/

Listen in as they share about:

• Choosing the Right Business Entity
• Equity Ownership and Vesting
• Fundraising Mechanics
• Investor Rights and Founder Protection
• Dilution and Secondary Sales
• Legal Expertise vs. AI Tools

Episode Links:

Website: https://gllaw.us/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-marsh-847a8571/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-mcgonagle-803b2b21/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Damiano Messineo, founder of Loopini, a revolutionary brand reimagining pizza through the power of the ancient lupini bean. From his childhood obsession with pizza to launching a premium, protein-packed frozen pizza line made in Italy, Damiano shares his flavorful journey of turning tradition into innovation.

He walks us through the lupini bean’s history—from Roman legions to Mayan civilization—and how this under-the-radar superfood is redefining the frozen aisle. Damiano also talks about sourcing ingredients straight from Naples, the importance of clean Italian flour, and the art of crafting a delicious, healthy pizza that still tastes indulgent. You’ll hear insights on launching at Fancy Foods, navigating international supply chains, and the role of community in early-stage growth.

Tune in now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Origin of Loopini Pizza
• What Makes Loopini Unique
• Startup Growth & Product Testing
• Challenges & Supply Chain Realities
• Retail & Pricing Strategy
• Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Efforts
• Community & Startup CPG Support

Episode Links:

Website: https://eatloopini.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damiano-messineo-53354018a/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Grace's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this bonus episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, sits down with Ashley Waldman, founder of Jubilee's, a groundbreaking line of flavored milk for kids made with real fruit, hidden vegetables, high protein, and zero added sugar.

Jubilee's just won the "Ones to Watch" lightning pitch competition at Beverage Forum!

In this episode, Ashley shares the personal story that inspired the brand’s creation, including her experience as a parent of a child with autism and her frustration with the lack of nutritious, low-sugar beverage options for children. From working with a professional formulator to pioneering a new approach to sweetening milk with fruits and vegetables, Ashley provides a transparent look into the product development process, the health implications of added sugar, and the early wins that are propelling 

Jubilee's into retail spaces and onto Amazon.

They also explore broader industry trends, the rise of functional and clean-label products, and practical advice for emerging founders in the CPG space.

What are you waiting for? Listen now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Founding Story of Jubilee's
• Product Formulation & Innovation
• Parenting & Health Consciousness
• Consumer Trends & Health Culture
• Marketing & Distribution
• Clean Label & Ingredient Awareness
• Founder Advice

Episode Links:

Website: https://drinkjubilees.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyverrill/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Caitlin's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff chats with Dana Kim & Sam Kass to unpack what “health” and “sustainability” actually mean to today’s consumers.

Sam Kass, former White House Chef and food policy advisor to the Obamas, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the West Wing—including what it's really like cooking for the First Family—and how those experiences led to a deep commitment to reshaping our food systems. He dives into the hard truths about sugar, portion sizes, and policy limits, as well as the ambitious mission behind his new venture, PLEZi, to help shift eating habits for the next generation.

Dana Kim, founder & CEO of product testing platform Highlight, brings the data. From packaging guilt to sweetener preferences, Dana shares real consumer insights from across the U.S.—what shoppers say they care about vs. what they actually buy, and why brands need to tailor their health and sustainability messages to fit different audiences (Erewhon isn't the whole world!).

Together, they explore how brands can build better-for-you products and communicate them effectively—without falling into the greenwashing trap.

👉 Want to learn how to turn data into product gold and create CPG brands that truly resonate with customers? Listen now and get inspired by two people shaping the future of food.

Learn more about Highlight here

Listen in as they share about:

• Health and Sustainability in Consumer Perception
• Sam Kass’ White House Experience
• Nutrition Policy and Cultural Barriers
• Consumer Behavior & Product Testing
• Sustainability Perception
• Trends in Food & Beverage
• Differences Between Mass and Tastemaker Consumers
• Brand Strategy & Messaging
• Advice to Founders and Brands

Episode Links:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/samkassdc/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-kass-896752112/

Website: https://www.letshighlight.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-kim-44920135/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy chats with Morgan Murdock, the founder of Unbothered Foods—a gut-friendly, sourdough-based cracker brand launched in 2023. Morgan, a clinical dietitian turned CPG entrepreneur, shares her journey from working with IBS patients to creating a delicious, low FODMAP cracker that prioritizes both taste and digestive health.

They dive into everything from navigating product formulation and scaling production to finding the right co-manufacturer and managing fermentation at scale. Morgan also opens up about fundraising via WeFunder, the challenges of being a solo founder, and the importance of mentorship in building a mission-driven food brand.

If you're a CPG founder, health-conscious foodie, or just love a good cracker, you won’t want to miss this one. Tune in now!

Use code STARTUPCPG at checkout for 15% off any cracker product!

Listen in as they share about:

• Unbothered Foods Overview
• Why Crackers?
• The Sourdough Advantage
• Scaling & Manufacturing Journey
• Retail & Distribution Strategy
• Funding & Bootstrapping
• Solo Founder Life
• Mentorship & Community Support

Episode Links:

Website: https://unbotheredfoods.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganjmurdock/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Grace's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG podcast, Daniel Scharff and Caitlin Bricker dive deep into how emerging brands are using AI for operations and back office support. Joined by two powerhouse founders—Yaminah Childress of YANY Beauty and Veronica Blue of Phenomenal Foods Co—they explore how small teams are using AI to scale smarter, save time, and simplify complex workflows.

From AI-powered forecasting and document automation to personalized marketing and product costing, this episode breaks down the real-world tools that founders are actually using. Yaminah shares how she leverages tools like Perplexity AI and Contractor AI to manage agreements, expansion strategies, and even create AI assistants.

Meanwhile, Veronica reveals how ChatGPT has become her go-to tool for recipe costing, unit economics, and preparing investor-ready projections—all as a solopreneur.

Whether you're skeptical, curious, or already experimenting with AI, this episode will give you practical ideas and fresh inspiration to apply AI in your own business ops.

Tune in now to learn how these founders are turning AI into their ultimate business partner.

Listen in as they share about:

• Initial Skepticism Around AI
• AI as a Tool for Business Efficiency
• AI as a Tool for Lean Teams
• AI for Financial Modeling & Forecasting
• AI Building Internal Knowledge Bases
• Legal, Regulatory, and Forecasting Uses
• Custom Tools & Software
• AI as a Creative Partner

Episode Links:

Website: https://yanybeauty.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamyaminah/ 

Website: https://phenomenalfoodsco.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vblue/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with BJ McCaslin, co-founder of Holy! Water.BJ shares the story behind Holy! Water, a functional beverage brand built on the belief that health is sacred. Drawing on his deep experience in hospitality and beverage entrepreneurship—including a successful exit to Vita Coco—BJ discusses how Holy! Water was developed to meet multiple consumer needs with formulations that include ketones, functional mushrooms, and nootropics.

They explore the evolution of the non-alcoholic and functional beverage categories, the challenges of product development, retail strategy, and navigating distribution. BJ also opens up about his approach to brand-building, investing in people, and what it takes to succeed in a highly competitive industry.

Whether you're a CPG founder, investor, or industry enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insight into the grit, creativity, and strategy behind bringing a beverage brand to life. Listen now!

👉 Try Holy! Water at enjoyholywater.com with code ALWAYS30 for 30% off!

Listen in as they share about:

• Holy! Water Overview
• Product Line & Unique Ingredients
• Distribution & Partnerships
• R&D Process & Challenges
• Marketing & Sales Strategy
• Positioning & Category Insight
• Brand Philosophy & Culture

Episode Links:

Website: https://enjoyholywater.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjmccaslin/ 

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Grace's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics