Today's guest is the wonderful Katie Arabella Ward - Senior National Account Manager at Pimentae

Pimentae make delicious Margaritas - Spicy, Tommy, Cucumber and my favourite - Grapefruit, which was also just named the best canned margarita by BBC Good Food

Katie swapped a career in beer into the world of tequila and I loved digging into all things drinks, managing customers and activations - and what they're doing as a brand to make noise.

I loved this chat - and hope you do too!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Also if you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible new sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous new rebrand.

They also have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

In this weeks episode, I chat to Emily Churchill - Head of Marketing at Nice Wine.

She shares insights into the brand's innovative approach to the wine industry.

We discuss the company's mission to make wine more approachable and fun, the strategic positioning that has led to its widespread acceptance, and the creative marketing campaigns that have captured consumer attention.

Emily also reflects on her career journey, the importance of company culture, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in marketing.

The discussion once again emphasises the significance of community, creativity, and adaptability in the fast-paced FMCG sector.

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Also if you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible new sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous new rebrand.

They also have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Today's guest is the fantastic Katie Jewett, Chief Operating Officer at Momo Kombucha.

Katie shares insights into the journey of Momo, a brand known for its high-quality, authentic kombucha.

We discuss the challenges of scaling a business, innovative collaborations, and the importance of maintaining product quality amongst rapid growth.

Katie also reflects on her career path, team dynamics, and the supportive culture within startups.

I loved the emphasis throughout on the significance of curiosity and community - and hope you do too!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Also if you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible new sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous new rebrand.

They also have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters

00:00: Katie's Role at Momo Kombucha

03:36: Momo's Growth and Scaling Challenges

06:42: Collaboration with Tate and Unique Offerings

08:38: Momo's Market Position and Authenticity

11:20: Retail Partnerships and Seasonal Flavors

13:01: Katie's Career Journey and Insights

15:45: Building a Diverse Skill Set

18:32: Navigating Growth and Challenges

21:01: The Importance of Clarity in Communication

22:58: Fostering Team Culture and Bonding

25:33: Curiosity and Continuous Growth

28:46: Overcoming Operational Challenges

31:37: Exciting Future Plans for Momo

33:57: The Power of Community in Startups

36:14: Advice for Aspiring FMCG Professionals

Today's guest Rudi McGuinness is one of the most passionate, energetic and engaging young people I've ever spoken to.

Rudi is Head of Partnerships at Dig In, a company who provide boxes of essential items for students on their first day of university, and how this create meaningful connections between brands and young consumers in a time they are most receptive.

We touch on her vibrant journey from Spain to the UK, her experiences in hospitality, and her passion for engaging with Gen Z through innovative marketing strategies.

We also discuss the challenges of outreach in the marketing world, the cultural differences between Spain and the UK, and the importance of positivity in the workplace.

Rudi's diverse career path and her commitment to building community shine through in this engaging conversation - you're going to love it (and her!)

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Also if you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible new sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous new rebrand.

They also have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters:

00:00: Understanding Diggin: The Concept and Its Impact

05:27: Rudy's Journey to Diggin: Personal Connection and Experience

09:48: Engagement Strategies: How Brands Connect with Gen Z

12:39: Challenges in Brand Outreach: The Ghosting Phenomenon

18:19: The Importance of Communication in Sales

20:33: Hospitality Experience: A Foundation for Sales Skills

21:54: Career Journey: From Hospitality to Insurance

26:52: Cultural Contrasts: Spain vs. London

36:09: Challenges in Business: Overcoming Obstacles

43:00: Connecting with the Community and Future Aspirations

In today’s episode I’m joined by two fantastic guests from the brilliant Mr Organic. Head of Brand Stephanie Lee and National Account Manager Margaux Jacquot.

I loved digging into the origins, heritage and why behind the brand, as well as unpicking everything around how the range has expanded to over 120 product and counting, and the role independents play in their strategy.

The conversation delves into the importance of customer feedback, the recent rebrand, and the significance of quality in organic products - as well as both of their careers.

I LOVED this one, and hope you will too.

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters:

00:00: Introduction and Background of Mr. Organic

03:14: Product Development and Customer Feedback

05:43: Innovative Campaigns and Product Launches

08:46: Exploring New Product Lines

11:31: Rebranding and Market Positioning

14:00: The Importance of Organic and Health Trends

17:04: Personal Journeys and Career Paths

22:41: The Journey to the UK: Margaux's Story

26:11: Sales Experience: Learning from the Field

28:15: Passion for Food: The Driving Force

30:54: Career Development: Finding the Right Fit

32:54: Navigating Challenges: Lessons from Tough Times

36:45: Value vs. Cost: Educating Customers

39:23: Collaboration and Team Spirit

39:37: Music and Team Culture

Today's guest is Will Drinkwater Head of Operations at TRIBE.

Tribe make delicious, nutritionally focused products like flapjacks, brownies, cereals and more with the aim of supporting their community charity The Tribe Freedom Foundation, helping tackle human trafficking.

Will has been in the business nearly 10 years and I loved digging into his journey.

We dive into Tribe's origin story, the importance of operations in a growing business, sustainability efforts, team culture, and the challenges faced in the food industry.

Will shares insights on product development, collaborations, and the tools that help streamline operations, emphasising the community aspect of the brand and the shared experiences that come with running and working together.

I LOVED this one, and hope you will too.

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters:

00:00: Introduction and Overview of Tribe

01:55: The Story Behind Tribe's Founding

04:45: Tribe's Social Impact and Charity Initiatives

07:43: Recent Product Launches and Brand Refresh

12:00: Will's Journey into Operations

14:38: The Importance of Operations in Business

17:01: Managing Growth and Supplier Relationships

19:35: Operational Tools and Software

25:57: Team Culture and Work Environment

28:03: Building a Young and Dynamic Team

30:35: The Power of Shared Experiences

36:59: Navigating Operational Challenges

43:06: Sustainability and Industry Regulations

45:18: Finding Your Tribe in Business

In today's episode, Nat Slade, Head of Sales and Partnerships at Dirtea, discusses the innovative world of functional mushrooms and their health benefits.

We discuss her journey from recruitment in healthcare to leading sales at Dirtea, emphasising the importance of team culture, wellness initiatives, and the brand's commitment to quality.

Nat also highlights the challenges faced in the industry, the significance of building relationships, and offers valuable advice for aspiring professionals in sales and FMCG.

There truly is SO much richness to be had here and I am a HUGE fan of the brand!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters:

00:00: Introduction to Dirty and Its Mission

04:20: Understanding Functional Mushrooms

07:19: The Dirty Product Range and Accessibility

10:26: The Versatility of Dirty Products in Food Service

13:10: Nat Slade's Career Journey and Transition to Dirty

19:20: Leadership and Team Development at Dirty

23:54: Navigating the Transition to Sales

24:51: The Shift to Mushroom Coffee

27:22: The Rise of Functional Foods

29:41: Balancing Work and Wellness

31:47: Building Team Culture at Dirty

33:43: Hiring for Success

37:31: Future Plans and Innovations

39:14: Overcoming Challenges in the Industry

43:14: Music and Motivation

44:17: Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals

In the final episode of our 3 part Mission Kitchen special, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Kerry Hopkins - Head of Brand at Pollen + Grace.

Pollen + Grace have been championing healthy, fresh, plant-based food for a decade now, and they don’t show any signs of slowing down.

I loved digging into Kerry’s time there pretty much since day one! What is it about her role that’s kept her engaged for 10 years, how has the brand evolved and changed.

What challenges have they had to overcome, and what does the future hold for them?

There truly is SO much richness to be had here and I am a HUGE fan of the brand!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Pollen and Grace

02:29: The Brand Story and Mission

04:52: Evolution of Pollen and Grace

06:40: Brand Messaging and Market Positioning

08:51: Team Structure and Work Environment

10:34: Brand Evolution and Packaging Changes

14:20: Challenges and Learning Experiences

16:46: Product Development and Feedback Loops

20:28: Market Trends and Consumer Behaviour

22:48: Personal Journey into the Food Industry

24:45: Passion and Commitment to the Brand

27:17: Future Plans and Innovations

30:31: Community and Networking at Mission Kitchen

33:18: Conclusion and Recommendations

In part 2 of our Mission Kitchen special, Mitch sits down with ⁠Jack Parton⁠, Marketing Director at ⁠Sylt Pickling⁠.

We discuss the innovative concept of pickling liquids, the importance of reducing food waste, and his journey in the food industry.

Jack shares insights on community engagement through events, the support provided by Mission Kitchen for startups, and the challenges faced in entrepreneurship.

Jack also emphasises the significance of work-life balance and the value of being part of a supportive community in the food business.

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Silk Pickling

04:04: The Concept of Home Pickling

07:14: Team Structure and Growth

09:05: Passion for Cooking and Culinary Journey

11:40: Events and Community Engagement

17:00: Mission Kitchen and Its Impact

22:50: Challenges and Learning Experiences

34:09: Final Thoughts and Advice

Today's guest is the fantastic Liv Marshall - Head of Commercial at White Rabbit.

In this episode we discuss Liv's journey from Unilever to leading a pioneering gluten-free brand.

She shares insights on the evolution of White Rabbit's product range, the importance of consumer feedback, and the challenges faced in the food industry.

Liv emphasises the significance of working for brands that align with personal values and the impact of strong leadership in fostering grow.

Plus SO much more!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor Mission Kitchen!

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

Check out the ever growing ⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠

Chapters:

00:00: Introduction to Liv Marshall and White Rabbit

03:19: The Evolution of White Rabbit

05:10: Product Highlights and Business Growth

06:56: The Role of Gluten-Free in Food Service

07:32: Liv's Day-to-Day as Head of Commercial

09:48: Liv's Career Journey: From Unilever to White Rabbit

14:09: Lessons from Unilever: The Big Business Experience

19:39: Transitioning to Oatly: Seeking Growth and Challenge

23:15: Diverse Backgrounds and Team Dynamics

27:35: Transitioning from Oatly to White Rabbit

31:42: Rebranding and Product Evolution

37:20: Consumer Engagement and Feedback

40:06: Learning from Career Challenges

42:44: Advice for Aspiring Professionals

43:33: Celebrating Female-Led Brands

44:54: The Journey and Lessons Learnedtro Jingle Credits to All Good Folks